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JOHN F. MYERS 




MRS. JOHN F. MYERS 



THE POEMS 

F 

J{ Fr" MYERS 

Together With 

BIOGRAPHY 



19 6 



INDEX 



Preface 2 

Poems by John P. Myers:— 

Pioneers and Early Days in Illinois 9 

Sixty Years Ago 21 

Bloomington, The Evergreen City 24 

Render Equal Honors to All 31 

The Cradle of Liberty 32 

Freedom 34 

Adjust the Laws 37 

An Address to Labor (both city and rural) 40 

An Address to Labor 42 

The Patriotism of Peace 45 

The Law of Compensation and Retribution 47 

Music 4g 

Love '',[[.[[[ 50 

Slander 52 

Tobacco 53 

How to be Happy 54 

Success gg 

Watch the Tide and Hustle 56 

Prompt Action is the Key to Success 57 

Opportunity 5g 

Hope **'****''!'; 58 

Secret of Content 60 

^'^^ .''.''/,['.'.['. 61 

Dare to do Right g2 

The Psychological Chord ...,., 64 



ii INDEX 

Guard Well Thy Thoughts 65 

Compeiid of the Doctrine of Predestination 66 

The Three Wishes 68 

The Girl and What She Likes 69 

The First Wedding 70 

Psuedo — Christian 73 

An Answer to the Assertion that Prohibi- 
tion does not Prohibit 75 

Women's Wrongs 76 

The Sweet Kankakee 78 

We All Wear Cloaks 80 

For the Indian Grove Review 82 

The Tippecanoe 83 

Missouri 84 

Arkansas 87 

Riverdale 89 

To Miss Sarah C. Birdsell, My Future Wife 92 
To My Wife When Absent from Home ... 93 

My Dear Little Family 94 

The Loved Ones at Home 96 

Since She Went Home 98 

Alone 99 

My Dear Mother 101 

In Memory of Mrs. Cora Spence 102 

In Memory of Miss Estella Myers 103 

Lines from Mrs. Cora B. Spence 104 

Lines Received from Estella E. Myers. . . 105 

A Memorial to Birdsell F. Mj^ers 106 

A Memorial to George L. Myers 107 

A Memorial to John Ray Myers 109 

An Evening Soliloquy Ill 

A School Essay for Birney Spence 112 

A School Essay for Carle Spence 113 



INDEX iii 

A School Essay for Georgie Myers 114 

School Essay for Johny Myers 115 

School Essay for J. Meurl Spence 116 

My Own Dear, Sweet Home 118 

To Enoch A. Gaston . , . , 120 

Where are the Friends of My Childhood.. 122 

Lines to Milton Thompson and Wife 123 

'Tis Sweet to Know They Care 124 

The Pioneer 125 

To My Old Friend, D. R. Potter 127 

To Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Reik 129 

To Mr. Edwin O. Ropp 130 

To the Bard of the Evergreen City, Mr. 

Edwin O. Ropp 131 

Such is Life 132 

A Vision 133 

My Creed 134 

In Memory of Mrs, M. A. Bills 136 

To the Memory of William Cruikshank . . . 137 

Fairbury, Livingston County, Illinois .... 138 

A Patriotic Ode 140 

Lincoln, the Man of Destiny 141 

Roosevelt, the People's President 144 

Pioneers of Livingston County 146 

What is Hell? 151 

Where is Hell? 152 

What is Heaven? 153 

Where is Heaven? 154 

Poems BY John Grove Myers: — 

Eulogy on Abraham Lincoln 158 

The Great Rebellion 160 

To Mrs. Mary Myers 162 



iv INDEX 

In Memory of My Blue Eyed Mary 163 

Female Influence 165 

Science and Art 165 

Education 166 

A Panorama of Life 167 

Genealogy of the Myers Family 170 

Genealogy of the John Grove Myers 

Family 180 

Genealogy of the John Lindley Sr. 

Family 188 

Geneology of the William W. Birdsell 

Family 198 



A BIOGRAPHICAL PREFACE 



aOHN FRANCES MYERS was born in Chris- 
tian county, Kentucky, on December 13, 
1834. At the age of ten months he came 
with his parents to McLean county, Illinois, 
where they purchased, settled on and improved 
what is now the McLean County Poor Farm. The 
wife and mother passed to spirit life in September 
1857, and in 1859, the children all having grown to 
maturity, the father sold the farm to the county. 

John F. Myers attended the country, district 
schools a part of each year from the time he was 
six years old until he reached the age of nineteen, 
when he entered the Wesleyan University, of 
Bloomington, Illinois, attending that school several 
terms while Prof. Sears was in control, and Prof. 
Northup, Profs. McNulty and Adams were teach- 
ers. Hon. Adlai E. Stevenson, Hon. James S. 
Ewing, Hon. Geo. P. Davis, and many other 
worthy youths of Bloomington and vicinity were 
students. 

On December 22, 1857, he was married to Miss 
Sarah C. Birdsell, of Randolph's Grove, near Hey- 
worth, Illinois, and has resided on a farm the 
greater part of the time since his marriage, locat- 
ing at his present residence, 924 West Front street, 
Bloomington, Illinois, March 1st, 1898. He 



4 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH 

resided on a farm near Pairbury, Illinois, for 
twenty-three years, and during that time engaged 
in general farming, raising, feeding and dealing in 
hogs, cattle and horses. He held the offices of 
school director, justice of the peace and commis- 
sioner of highways, the most of the time conjointly, 
for twenty years. 

He inherited from his parents a natural talent 
for music and poetry, he played the fife for mili- 
tary drill for the McLean county regiment of mili- 
tia, a regiment of which his father was fife major. 
At the age of eight years and at twelve years he 
developed a talent for poetry, and wrote numerous 
ditties and ballads on comic and dramatic circum- 
stances in rhyme for the amusement of his friends, 
many of which were too full of mirth and sarcasm 
to meet the approbation of the author at this time 
and so will be omitted from this volume. 

As he grew to manhood he could not see suffi- 
cient money in music and poetry, to satisfy his 
financial ambition, as a profession, especially in 
that early day, consequently he stuck to the farm 
and contented himself with occasionally playing 
the violin, fife, guitar or violoncello for his friends 
when solicited to do so, and writing an occasional 
poem or instrumental piece of music when the 
muses would bring the inspiration so strong that 
it would boil over of its own momentum. 

The author being independent and conservative 
in politics and religion, and believing that there is 
some good in almost all parties and sects, and that 
all sects and secret orders, and organizations that 
make men and women better citizens and better at 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH 5 

heart, are good for the world — as we can not all 
see alike — yet he believes that few of them are 
perfect, and in his comments has tried to call 
things by their right names, and has pointed out 
with impartiality and malice toward none, a few 
vices and errors which have crept into our social, 
civil, political and commercial systems, and made 
some suggestions which he would rejoice to 
iinow, will be received in the spirit of kindness in 
which they are given, and will bear fruit for the 
betterment of mankind, feeling that the whole 
world should regard each other as brothers, and 
work together for mutual good. And he earnestly 
hopes the gentle readers will pardon the eluogistic 
effusions of love and admiration displayed in his 
personal, memorial and eulogistic peoms, when 
they know (as his near friends know) his sympa- 
thetic heart and strong love for those near and 
dear, and for old and tried friends. 

John Grove Myers, the father of John F. Myers, 
was born in Christian County, Kentucky, in the 
year 1799, was the son of Henry Myers and Cath- 
erine Negley-Myers who were born in Lancaster 
County, Pennsylvania, and were sturdy scions of 
the Pennsylvania Dutch. Henry Myers was a 
man of sterling worth and irreproachable charac- 
ter, a mechanic and farmer, his wife Elizabeth 
Myers was a lady possessing a high order of 
intellect, and they raised a family who were an 
honor to their memory. 

John Grove Myers had much natural talent for 
mechanics, music and poetry, was a fine vocalist, 
taught vocal music in his early manhood, and was 



6 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH 

a man of much intellectual ability, industrious, 
temperate, honest and affable. He wrote many 
poems, which were printed in ballad form, nearly 
all of which have been lost, the few which the 
author has been able to collect were mostly in 
manuscript, among his old papers (he having 
passed to spirit life in 1869) and they will appear 
in this volume. 

Mary Lindley- Myers the mother of John F. 
Myers, was born in Christian County Kentucky, 
in the year 1800, was a woman of many lovable 
traits and a shrewd philosophical business woman, 
giving her husband timely and inestimable aid in 
keeping the ship of finance afloat, and in stamping 
a character for morality and business on her family. 
Her father, John Lindley, Sr., was of English 
descent and a man of sterling worth and character, 
born in Kentucky and a pioneer of McLean County, 
Illinois. Her mother Elizabeth Gray-Lindley, was 
a lady of high born Scotch Irish ancestry posses- 
ing a high order of intellect and a lovable woman 
of many good traits of character. 

Sarah C. Birdsell-Myers, wife of John P. Myers, 
was born at the beautiful residence of her parents, 
William Birdsell and Lovina Paswaters-Birdsell, 
on the west side of Randolph's Grove, McLean 
County, IlUnois, April 23 A. D. 1842, being the 
youngest child of the family. She grew up in ease 
and comfort, enjoyingathe beautiful scenery around 
the home, of groves, meadows, orchards and pas- 
tures, where the quails, squirrels and beautiful 
songsters of the grove were her frequent com- 
panions as she took great delight in out door 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH 7 

recreation. That beautiful life with nature nursed 
into active life her natural love for the beautiful, 
and developed her fine artistic powers as a sketcher 
and painter, enabling her to paint birds, animals, 
trees, fl6wers and portraits of persons (with accur- 
acy surprising to old artists) without teacher, 
design or theorems, and her own home is decorated 
in the main by her own beautiful paintings. She 
often refers with pleasure to her school days at 
the beautiful grove where she spent many happy 
days and formed many warm friendships never to 
be forgotten, and dwells with reverential love upon 
the beauties of her childhood home. Though 
raised in ease and comfort and married very young, 
she entered into her wifely duties with an interest 
and ability far beyond her years, and has done well 
her part to keep the domestic ship of finance afloat. 
She passed to spirit life August 21, 1906 leaving 
many sorrowing friends. 

William Birdsell, the father of Sarah C. Birdsell- 
Myers was born in Dutchess County, New York, 
emigrated to Ohio in an early day, and there mar- 
ried Miss Lovina Paswaters, soon after their 
marriage they came to Randolph's Grove, McLean 
County, Illinois, where they settled on a beautiful 
location and improved a splendid farm of 400 acres, 
erecting a fine residence, where they raised their 
family and accumnlated a handsome surplus by 
raising and dealing in farm stock. William Bird- 
sell was a very honorable, intelligent and business 
like man and held the oflSce of Justice of the Peace 
for many years. 



POEMS 



PIONEERS AND EARLY DAYS IN ILLINOIS 

The scenes of my childhood, how often they haunt me, 

With visions of beauty, from nature's grand store, 
The beautiful prairies, O how they enchant me, 

The groves in the primeval beautiful of yore ; 
The creek in the valley, where grew the wild roses. 

The spring, where the cattle oft gathered to drink. 
The lawn, where we gathered the sweet smelling posieSy 

That grew near the brooklet, along on its brink. 

The dear old home cottage, where sisters and brothers^ 

Made music and song with a rapturous glee, 
The beautiful grove, where I met with another. 

Whose radiant smile, still brings pleasure to me, 
In summer and autumn, those beautiful prairies 

Were decked with wild flowers, a beautiful chart; 
T'was charming, an ideal home for the fairies, 

A scene that is still very dear to my heart. 

Wild fruits, then were plenty, the grapes, O how charming, 

And strawberries too, O how luscious and sweet; 
The plums, how they rattled when shook, *twas alarming 

To see them come tumbling down thick at our feet; 
The creeks were not bridged, the roads were not graded 

And sloughs were not ditched but with tall grass grown 
o'er ; 
The grsss with its sod, bore us up while we waded 

With slow splashing steps, till we landed on shore. 



10 POEMS 

The first whites who came to this lovely location, 

Were Hendrix and Dawson, the year twenty-two, 
They opened up farms, that was their vocation, 

Their motto, be honest in all that you do, 
The Orendorfs came next, and their homes soon were chosen, 

East side of the grove, where they lived in content, 
With Indians for neighbors, sometimQs by the dozen. 

They sowed seeds of kindness, where ever they went. 

'In 24 came William Hodge, a school teacher, 

With Goodheart and Walker, they each took a claim. 
And Bbenezer Rhodes, pioneer Baptist preacher. 

Who built up a church here soon after he came; 
At home of John Hendrix, first Methodist sermon, 

By Rev. Stringfield, to a dozen or more, 
They had a good meeting, and there did determine. 

And formed a small class, in the year twenty-four. 

The first couple married, succumbed to love's passion. 

Was Thomas Orendorf, and Miss Walker they say. 
They set the example, it soon was the fashion, 

And thousands did likewise, simce that early day; 
Rev. See and James Latta were pioneer preachers. 

Who came to the grove, and were then in their prime, 
In that early day, they were very good teachers. 

And gave to the people, a share of their time. 

The first white male child, in this beatiful county. 

Was John I^ewis Orendorf, the year twenty-five, 
I think he should have a magnificent bounty. 

He lives near the grove yet, and still is alive. 
The name of the grove was proposed by his mother, 

Whose judgment and taste were considered quite fine, 
The name was so pleasing, they would have no other, 

T'was called Blooming Grove, all along on the line. 

Along in the twenties, the Indians infested 

This beautiful country, Ma-chee-na was chief, 

But after the whites were with power invested. 
They made little trouble, which was a relief. 



POEMS 11 

They lived here in peace, though they sometimes were 
grumbling, 

With sinister threats, made to scare us away, 
We met them with firmness, so many whites coming, 

They yielded at last and the white man did stay. 

The people built houses of logs for a starter, 

Made clap-boards for shingles, to cover them o'er. 
The cracks chinked with clay, mixed with straw for a mortar, 

And logs split in puncheons, were laid for a floor; 
This country a paradise then, for the hunter, 

For deer, grouse and turkey, then roamed o'er the hills, 
The pioneer's larder, was filled in the winter. 

With savory meat, from the game that he killed. 

The deer were so plenty, were often together, 

And often when hunting we found them in droves, 
They often in winter and stormy bad weather. 

For refuge and comfort, would hie to the groves, 
When snow fell quite deep and lay most of the winter, 

They came to the farms, and the fields were their beat, 
Where often they fell easy prey to the hunter. 

While ranging the fields to get something to eat. 

The wolves were so plenty, we oft heard them howling, 

For thieving and cunning, they carried the palm. 
They traveled at night, and did most of their prowling 

For chickens or turkeys, a pig or a lamb. 
We caught them with steel traps and often we shot them, 

And chased them with dogs that were good on the run. 
We frequently went out on horseback and caught them, 

A wolf chase with dogs made us plenty of fun. 

The bull snake and black snake, quite many did shy them. 

The garter and milk snake were nothing to dread, 
The rattler and copperhead, all did decry them, 

Though on harmless kinds, we had no fear to tread, 
The snake we most feared, on his tail had a rattle, 

His poisonous venom, we soon learned to fear. 
When he was approached, he was apt to give battle, 

And rattle his warning for us to steer clear. 



12 POEMS 

The people were few, now and then a plantation, 

No houses except near the groves did appear, 
The farms were not large, that were in cultivation, 

T'was only in stock, tbat we money could clear; 
They had neither hedges, nor wire, nor lumber. 

To fence in the crops and protect them from harm. 
The men with their muscle, went into the timber, 

Like Lincoln, split rails and then fenced in the farm. 

The prairies were in their primeval condition, 

The few farms were fenced, and the stock ran at large, 
Which gave the stock man a financial addition; 

But now high priced land make the stock a great charge, 
At that time our stock as to grade were inferior 

Compared with our stock now in their improved state, 
And those we now have, are by far their superior, 

In breeding and form and excel them in weight. 

The hog was quite ancient, his back like a razor, 

His nose was so sharp he could drink from a jug. 
The cattle were fair, and a very good grazer, 

A few fine small horses, but most of them plug, 
Too light for hard drafts, heavy roads, and hard wheeling 

But some were as fleet as the earth ever trod, 
The ox was more patient*, less nervous, less feeling, 

And used on the prairies to break up the sod. 

The prairies were many times dotted with cattle. 

That grazed o'er the hills, near the farms in content, 
And fortunes were made, then, by raising this chattel. 

For Uncle Sam's grass did not cost them a cent; 
Ah well I remember! those beautiful cattle. 

In summer their new coats were glossy and sleek, 
The males often met, and then had a fierce battle. 

When coming to drink, at the sweet Sugar creek. 

The plow in those days, was quite crude in construction. 

The bar and shear, iron, the balance was wood. 
It rooted the ground, slightly aiding production, 



POEMS 13 

The land being new, brought a crop that was good; 
The scythe and the cradle, for mowing and reaping; 

They used, and with hands, put the grain into bale, 
Then shocked it, and stacked it, to better thekeeping; 

And tramped out with horses, or thrashed with a flail. 

Then clothing was high, it was hard to procure it, 

Though fine wool and flax, were produced in the land. 
The matrons and maidens, t'was hard to endure it, 

Made both cloth and clothing, with dear willing hands. 
We then had no coal, neither gas nor cheap coal oil. 

To light up our houses, as now cheap and good. 
We lit them with candles, and lamps filled with lard oil. 

And heated with fuel, split out of the wood. 

In those days the cook stove, was not yet invented, 

The large open chimney, considered the thing; 
Pots, skillet and oven, the cook was contented. 

And served up her meals, good enough for a king; 
The pots hung on pot racks, for boiling and stewing. 

The oven was made with short legs and a lid. 
Was heated with coals, and kept hot by renewing, 

Both bottom and top, and it baked splendid bread. 

A buggy or carriage, the fact is we had none, 

And folks went on horse back, or walked to the church, 
Side saddles for ladies, that is if they had one. 

If not, rode behind, or were left in the lurch; 
In those early days, it was hard to get money. 

The price of home products, was wonderful flat, 
A horse twenty dollars, or five for a pony. 

Corn ten cents per bushel, and slow sale at that. 

Those having the maple tree, made their own sugar. 

The sap would run freely in spring for a while, 
To get it, we bored in the tree with an auger. 

Say four inches deep, and then put in a spile; 
We caught it in troughs, and then boiled to a syrup, 

Then strained it, and boiled again o'er a slow fire; 
To keep it from burning, we oft did it stir up. 

And made as nice sugar, as one could desire. 



14 POEMS 

A country church building, we had none what ever, 

The people were few, and the times were so close, 
Those who were inclined to a pious endeavor, 

Held service at home, or a country school house; 
When met some good brother, would act as their teacher, 

And lead in the service, to sing and to pray, 
They had a good time, if a pioneer preacher. 

When out on a circuit, would come round their way. 

In those days, the people were kind to each other, 

Extended their kindness, to all whom they found. 
They gave the newcomer the hand of a brother, 

And welcomed the stranger, whene'er he came round; 
No charges for lodging, nor meals, not a shilling, 

The greeting was cordial, when one came about, 
Unless they had proved him a consummate villian. 

Their hearth stone was free and their latch string hung out. 

The harrow we used then, was shaped like an A, sir, 

T'was made from a tree, that was forked and good, 
Not much like the steel ones, so common today, sir. 

We made it at home, it was all made of wood. 
The old schooner wagon, was then all the go, sir, 

T'was drawn by four horses, we thought it was fine. 
When loaded and started, it made quite a show, sir, 

The man rode the wheel horse, and drove with one line. 

The year twenty-three, the first school in the county. 

Was taught by Miss Mullen, the scholars were few, 
The room was provided by John Dawson's bounty. 

Tuition was paid by the scholar when due; 
The year twenty-five the first school house erected. 

Stood near William Walkers, south side of the grove, 
For three miles around, all the students collected. 

At that dear old school, which they soon learned to loye. 

The school house was then built of logs and one story, 
The seats were split benches, with only four legs. 

Yet we went to school, and were right in our glory. 
Hats, bonnets and baskets we hung upon pegs; 



POEMS 15 

The country school, then, taught us reading and spelling, 

With writing, arithmetic, geography too, 
And grammar to those who desired excelling. 

But of higher branches, t'was little they knew. 

A pioneer school house, stood near Hinshaw's pasture, 

Where Oliver March, taught an excellent school, 
*And well I remember, as if it was last year, 

How often he punished the boys with his rule; 
The rules in the schools, in those days, were quite rigid, 

To whisper or laugh, was considered a crime, 
The teacher would give them a look, sharp and frigid. 

With rule or with switch, he would bring them to time. 

We had neither steam mills, nor mills run by water, 

And good mills for grinding, were far far away; 
The grain was prepared, and put in a mortar, 

And pounded, t'was tedious, but common that day, 
In thirty, I. Baker a mill built for grinding, 

It ground very slowly, but made us good meal, 
The wheel a flat circle, kept constantly winding, 

By weight of the horses, by treading the wheel. 

The next mill was built, by Sam Leander for water, 

Which proved so uncertain, it failed him to pay, 
T'was changed to a tread mill, which paid him much better, 

And always was ready, in that early day; 
In spring of the year, and oft times late in autumn. 

The great prairie fires, like demons would bound. 
And farms unprotected, it frequently caught them. 

And hay, grain and fences, were burned to the ground. 

The year twenty-seven, the first road was laid out. 

From head of the Salt Creek, to Mackinaw Town, 
It got little work, little money was paid out, 

And in rainy weather the wheels cut right down; 
First road supervisor was Joseph B. Harbord, 

He had jurisdiction for many miles round. 
They had no road scrapers, with shovels they labored, 

A bridge or a levee could scarcely be found. 



16 POEMS 

The first justice chosen, to act in that line, sir, 

Was William Orendorf, he was one of the best, 
He joined many couples, in that he was fine, sir. 

He filled many places of honor and trust; 
And Thomas Orendorf was made first assessor, 

The treasurer also, and coroner too, 
For he in that day, was an honest possessor. 

Of many good traits, for a country so new. 

The pioneer grand jury, just half a dozen, 

Was Peter McCullough, John Rhodes and I^ee Hurst, 
And Orendorf, Walker and Gilston, were chosen. 

For those men were thought to be good as the best, 
They made William Hodge, the first pioneer sheriff. 

And also he taught them, a pioneer school, 
His official power, extended afar off, 

But little to do, in that line as a rule. 

J. W. Fell was first licensed attorney, 

A. Gridley soon followed, the law to expound, 
They came from the east, then a long tedious journey. 

In Bloomington's interest, they always were found, 
In thirty, McLean was set running to order, 

The board of election, was Hendrix and Cox, 
With Benson, good men as they had on the border, 

And men who would work for a pure ballot box. 

The father of Bloomington, and her projector. 

Was Honorable James Allin, soon falling in line 
Were Gridley and Covel, both loyal protectors, 

McClun and Judge Davis, did work that was fine. 
The first store in Bloomington, Allin erected. 

In eighteen and thirty he there took a stand. 
This beautiful place, for a town he selected. 

The most favored spot, he had seen in the land. 

In 30 this beautiful country was booming, 
About 50 families, lined round the grove. 

In 31 Bloomington started its looming. 

And slowly, but surely, is still on the move; 



POEMS 17 

The pioneer doctors, were Wheeler and Baker, 
With Haines and Doc Anderson; all came to stay, 

The ague was common, a terrible shaker. 
And hard to get rid of in that early day. 

In 30, the Lindleys, and Harbards were dwellers, 

On farms near the grove; also Benny DePew; 
And Ivucas, and Benson — they all were good fellows — 

And Hinshaw and Walker — also Nathan Low; 
The Bakers, the Prices, James Latta and others, 

The Rhodes and Canidas — Coxes as well; 
The Masons and Withers — they all were like brothers — 

And others quite worthy, to tedious to tell. 

In 32, Indian Chief Black Hawk collected. 

His warriors, for battle, our progress to end. 
The whites organized, and their leaders selected. 

And marched to the front, their dear homes to defend, 
They made Covel captain, and Gridley lieutenant. 

The second lieutenancy, Baldwin received; 
Their service was short, as the war soon was ended. 

The Indians went west and the whites were relieved. 

In 24 came Isaac Funk and his brothers, 

The Rhodes, the Stubblefields, Rutledges too. 
By dealing in stock they surpassed many others. 

Investing in lands, while the country was new; 
In the year 25 came the Cheneys and Dimmitt, 

The Dickersons, Mitchell, and old Father Hand, 
Also Jesse Stubblefield, there was no limit. 

For all who came then, could get plenty of land. 

The year 26, came the Guthries and Trimmer, 

And William McCullough, also David Cox; 
J. Spawr and Vansickle, were 26 comers. 

In those early days, all had many hard knocks; 
The year 27, came Thomas McClure, 

Also Dr. Baker, and Stephen Webb, 
And Buckles, they all came good homes to secure, 

And Jonathan Hodge, also came Mathew Robb. 



18 POEMS 

In 28, came William Lindley, and Haner, 

James Rayburn, the Barnards, the Henlines came too, 
Ben Patton, Hieronymus, were all the gainer, 

They located farms and found plenty to do; 
James Allin, James VanScoyc, also Levi Danley, 

Lee Downs, Nathan Low, came the year 29, 
The Crumbau^hs came also, and all got farms handily, 

And Moots and John Thompson, both fell into line. 

In 30, came Presley Brooks, and William Beeler, 

And some of the Crumbaughs, and honest John Moore, 
D. Simmons, Eph Myers, and Benjamin Wheeler, 

John Smith, as good men as had come here before; 
Also Peter Hefner, Will Riggs, Silas Waters, 

With Jonathan Maxon, and Mat Coverdale, 
Also Patrick Hopkins and Purnell Passwaters, 

Jake Bishop and Birdsell, men who did prevail. 

The year 31, came Dave Noble and brothers, 

A. Gridley, Green; Larrison, Ike Turnipseed, 
The Stewarts, James Bishop, the Houghams and others, 

Abe Carlock and Washburn, all good men indeed; 
The year 32, came Grog Dawson and brothers, 

John Ogden, McAlfertys, Dimic as well, 
John Bishop, James, Harbord, Stansberry and others, 

And Wilcox, and Weaver, all come here to dwell. 

The year 33, came the Prices and Warlow, 

John Lindley, Sam Ogden, Mat Young, Lewis Bunn, 
A. Withers, H. Noble, and Hiram Buck also, 

While plenty of game, every man kept a gun, 
And came William Bishop, M. Batterton also. 

And Jonathan Ogden, also Lewis Case, 
Also Harvey Bishop, Elias, H. Hall, sir. 

And after wild game they had many a chase. 

The year 34, came James Adams, and others, 

Also Shelton, Smith, A. P. Craig, Walter Karr, 
And Sylvester Peasley, and all the Rust brothers. 



POEMS 19 

Also P. R. Cowden, this good land to share; 
And many who came, in those days, in their boyhood, 

Still working- at home, of their own not a cent. 
They learned to be frugal and honest in manhood. 

And now they have plenty of good land to rent. 

The year 35, came the Majors and Lander, 

James Miller, John Enlow, also Thomas Fell, 
And Judge David Davis, the people's defender, 

John Myeg^, the fifer, and poet as well; 
Also came the Wileys, and William H. Temple, 

The Karrs, Campbell Wakefield and Jimmy Depew, 
Milton Smith, John Magoun, who were noble examples, 

Henry Welch, Mathew Hawks, all were men, tried and 
true. 

In 36, came William Thomas and Lewis, 

Also Wesley Bishop and Jonathan Coon, 
And W. T. Flagg, Thomas Gilmore and Burtis, 

To all was this country a glorious boon. 
And came Joseph Horr, also Isaac Stansberry, 

John Longworth, came also, and Kersey H. Pell, 
There was yet vacant land, they for homes had no worry, 

John Cusey came also, and Richard Rowell. 

The year 37, came John W. Billings, 

And Dr. C. Wakefield, and Joshua Pell, 
And Abraham Brokaw, who came with few shillings, 

And Jonathan Glimpse, and Eleazer Munsell, 
And John E. McClun, also Isaac L. Coon, sir, 

And A. W. Scrogin, also William Grose, 
This beautiful land was to all a great boon, sir. 

Though money was scarce, and the times very close. 

Our patriotism, was kindled each summer, 

The law, called all able militia for drill, 
John Myers was fifer, John Rochold was drummer, 

H. Miller, the captain's position did fill, 
Each autumn, they met for a barbecue dinner, 



20 ' POEMS 

From all o'er the county, in brilliant array, 
And marched to the music, t'was always a winner, 

When Gridley or Covell, was chief of the day. 
• 
In summer we used to go bathing and swimming. 

Along the green banks, of the old Kickapoo, 
The trees clothed with green, and the birds sweetly singing. 

Had charms that no one but a country boy knew. 
The deep shaded pools, and the shallows of gravel. 

Had exquisite charms, that to nature is truei^ 
I've seen many streams, in the course of my travel. 

But none had the charms of the old Kickapoo. 

Then Pekin, Peoria, and far off Chicago, 

Were our best markets, for grain beef and pork. 
No railroads, t'was wagons, that carried the cargo. 

The fat stock were driven, t'was slow tedious work; 
When all was disposed of, and money collected. 

The teams fed and rested, and ready to come, 
We bought the few extras, that we had expected, , 

And loaded with goods, for the merchants at home. 

Dear Bloomington then, was a village, a small one, 

The houses were mostly but one story high, 
The streets were not graded, and sometimes would stall one, 

When coming to market to get a supply. 
No mail cars, no telegraph, telephone either. 

The mails were conveyed on a horse or a stage, 
A message must wait, either good or bad weather, 

To pass o'er mud roads, in that pioneer age. 

Tis needless to tell what we now are achieving, 

In every conceivable line of today, 
Just look all around you, to see is believing. 

The eye can behold, more than pen can portray; 
Our wonderful progress, today, O behold it, 

The genius of man, we descry on each hand, 
No prophet, no sage, could have dreamed or foretold it. 

The picture of progress that covers this land. 



POEMS 21 

O beautiful country! Thy charms so alluring, 

Have wooed to thy bosom, all men to be free, 
O beautiful city, thy fame is enduring. 

For culture and progress, thy motto shall be; 
Yes beautiful Bloomington, gem of the period. 

Home of the cultured, the good and the brave. 
With fine schools to educate, parks for the wearied, 

May God add His blessing, thy people to save. 



SIXTY YEARS AGO 

January A. D. IQOb 

In viewing memory's pages o'er, to where they first begun, 

The incidents of childhood days, are bright as noon day sun. 
The cabin home in Blooming grove, the first I seem to know. 

My father built in 35, seventy years ago. 
Soon after that he bought the land, the County Farm tis now. 

Improving it from time to time, with honest sweat of brow, 
The house was built while at the door wild prairie grass did 
grow. 

We moved there from the cabin home, sixty-eight years 
ago. 

There were nine children, four were girls and five were ruddy 
boys. 
And we were then a jolly set, for music, fun and noise. 
The work, it first had to be done if weather fair and bright, 
The music mirth and pleasure came, when raining and at 
night. 
In those primeval days of yore, we walked three miles to 
school. 
The teachers eyes and ears were sharp, and iron clad the 
rules. 
And if our studies fell behind, did not the lessons know 
They made us study recess hours, just sixty years ago. 



22 POEMS 

Those early days the law compelled militia men to drill, 

Fife majors place, when on the march, my father had to fill, 
At seven years, I learned to play quite well upon the fife, 

My brother Will he did the same, of music we were rife, 
At eight years old, I used to play for military drill, 

At ten years old, my father's place I sometimes had to fill. 
At twelve years, on the violin I was not slow, 

I often played in public then, just sixty years ago. 

Our marbles then we made at home, with which we used to 
play, 
We rolled them out perfectly round, from subsoil prairie 
clay. 
We roasted them within the fire till hard as any rock, 

They proved to be the very thing to stand a heavy knock, 
In spring we tapped the sugar trees, their water pure and 
sweet. 
We put into the kettles clean, to syrup boiled complete, 
T'was then all emptied into one and boiled down very low, 
And moulded into sugar cakes, just sixty years ago. 

And O, the splendid tea we made to drink, it was a treat, 

T'was made from roots of sassafras and sugar water sweet. 
And if we longed for taffy, we would save some syrup for night, 
The girls and boys would boil it down, and pull by candle 
light. 
And when it ceased to freeze at night the sugar water stopped, 
Then work upon the farm commenced, the putting in the 
crop, 
With 10-inch wooden mould board plows the work went 
very slow, 
The same plow used for cultivating, sixty years ago. 

And when preparing for the crop and cleaning up the land, 
We cut the corn stocks down with hoes and picked them 

up by hand. 
And if for corn we plowed the ground, then cross marks made 

for rows, 



POEMS 23 

One ran the plow, one dropped the corn, two covered it 
with hoes, 
In harvest one man cut a swath, with cradle swung by hand, 

One raked it into bundles and another tied the bands. 
When dry enough we stacked it near the threshing floor 

you know. 
Then boys on horseback tramped it out, just sixty years 

ago. 

Then Blooming Grove was in her prime, wild fruits and nuts 
to spare, 
Summer and autumn's balmy days brought us a liberal 
share, 
The walnuts and the butternuts and hazel nuts were prime. 
The berries, plums and hickory nuts and grapes came in 
their time. 
And pawpaws, my! I taste them yet, it was a splendid treat, 
When frost had fairly mellowed them and made them 
good and sweet, 
To shake the trees, and stand abaft, while they came 
tumbling low, 
O, how we loved those fruits and nuts of sixty years ago. 

When frost had nipped the pumpkin vines, we pumpkins 
gathered in. 
Potatoes dug and stored away, crab apples in the bin. 
The prairie hay we cut with scythes, for stock from off the 
range, 
The work was then preparing for the winter's bitter 
change. 
The new corn mush, with milk, was great, at night we used 
to take. 
And luscious corn meal dodgers, that my mother used to 
bake, 
And fresh pork sausage made at home, such living was not 
slow. 
With pumpkin pies to finish up, just sixty years ago. 



24 POEMS 

In winter some would snap their corn and pile it in the shuck, 
And he who had the big-gest pile, he thought himself in 
luck. 
At night his neighbors gathered in, the jokes and fun were 
loud, 
They chose two captains for the job, each chose one half 
the crowd, 
And then the work went merrily, they husked with all their 
might, 
The corn was husked and in the crib by 10 o'clock at night. 
Then smoking hot, a lunch was served, and all rejoiced to 
know. 
The music for the dance was there, just sixty years ago. 

The people were quite happy then, were equal and content, 

The right hand of a brother, you received wheree'er you 
went. 
The farmers were a brotherhood, whose interests were allied, 

The village, cursed with very few, who all the laws defied, 
Now, fashion is the people's God, they try to live too fast, 

The poor will imitate the rich, their money does not last, 
Good people, you should never try to make such customs go, 

Far better practice frugal traits of sixty years ago. 



BLOOMIINGTON, THE EVERGREEN CITY 

To be sung to the tune of Tramp, Tramp the Boys are Marching. 
Repeat the air proper before singing the chorus. 

This great agricultural state, rating near the top of late, 
Now has many splendid cities on her plain, 

But a very few that rate, in a general estimate. 
With the lovely county seat of old McLean, 

This young city always^seen, sitting lovely, calm, serene, 
. With her many lovely mansions mounted high, 



POEMS 25 

Is a glorious summer scene, with her many trees so green, 
And her splendid towers pointing to the sky. 

CHORUS 
Tramp, tramp, thousands will be coming, 

Here to settle while there's room, 
In this lovely city wide, they can settle side by side, 

And be happy in their pleasant city home. 

Here she sits in regal state, she is on a boom of late, 

And for her there is in store a glorius name; 
Her resources now are great, no place better in the state; 

She's destined to climb to glorious heights of fame. 
This grand city of the plain, watching every chance for gain, 

Has twelve railroad avenues already made; 
To increase commercial gain, she soon others will obtain. 

And enhance her splendid revenues and trade. 

With her grand electric lines she has made a loop combine, 

With her lovely daughter Normal, evermore; 
And her interurban lines, penetrating her confines; 

Now her many lines are passing many doors. 
She has coal a boundless yield, in her bosom yet concealed, 

Which will bring enormous trade and cash as well. 
It is now a fact revealed, she's a glorious mining field, 

That will fast her wealth and population swell. 

All around her farms are nice, and they bring a gilt edge 
price; 

You no better in the country can obtain. 
She's a farmer's paradise, stay with her is my advice; 

Here to educate your children and remain. 
She has rural mail of late, and they bring it to your gate, 

And a telephone system far and wide. 
You can write or stand and prate to all cities in the state 

While you quietly at home with friends abide. 

Here in central Illinois she has agricultural joys. 
In her lands, and many avenues for gain; 



26 POEMS 

And I frankly tell you boys, there's no place in Illinois 

For a home, I'd rather settle and remain. 
Bloomington can, if you please, grind or store your grain 
with ease. 

Or will buy and ship it to the marts of trade; 
And her merchants can supply anything you wish to buy, 

From a needle to the biggest thing that's made. 

She, with many mills combined with her shipping plants so 
fine, 

And her canning plants, all products can consume; 
With a home demand benign, here the chance is superfine. 

For an extra price for products right at home. 
Shops and factories immense she has built at great expense, 

And they manufacture many lines that pay; 
They're the laboring man's defense, for the wages are im- 
mense. 

They distribute through the city day by day. 

She has grand electric lights for your streets and house of 
nights, 

Making many streets and houses bright as day; 
If you wish to work at night, making everything so bright, 

If you travel, lights and guards you on the way. 
And her sewer system grand has not yet come to a stand, 

But is growing to perfection year by year; 
T'will continue to expand until all the city land 

In its splendid healthful benefits will share. 

With great pumps she water takes from subterranean lakes, 
It is healthful, pure and better far than srold; 

If your health inclines to break, then her healthful water 
take, 

To prevent your prematurely growing old. 

From a tower errand, complete, up in air two hundred feet, 

It is forced through many mains the city o'er; 

She will pipe throvgh any street, if it your approval meet, 

Also pipe it in your house or to your door. 



POEMS 27 

She has many streets that's paved, some as smooth as faces 
shaved, 

With asphaltum, brick and stone superbly fine; 
Everyone would like to pave, it will health and money save, 

And the people now are falling into line. 
Every person wishing work, who their duty will not shirk, 

Can get steady work and wages every day; 
But the one who always shirks, also some dishonest clerks, 

Sometimes have to look for places far away. 

Any man, who has a care, with his family to share 

All the proceeds of his labor day by day; 
Can for all have decent fare, have enough to eat and wear, 

If he neither drinks or gambles on the way. 
Men who drink and loaf around, oft in gambling hells are 
found, 
As lice upon the city where they thrive; 
For a living they are bound, like a hunter's hungry hound, 
They're the drones who steal the honey in the hive. 

She has stores of many kinds, better stores are hard to find, 

And their prices lay Chicago in the shade; 
If to doubt it you're inclined, go and disabuse you're mind. 

For both cities buy the goods right where they're made. 
And the merchants selling here have much less expense to 
bear. 

For their rents are not one-fourth Chicago rate; 
And their living is less dear, pay the clerks no more than 
there, 

They can sell as low as any in the state. 

Her court house is superfine, standing stately, grand, sublime, 

A fit palace for a president or a king; 
Built upon the fireproof line to defy the hand of time 

And for usefulness and beauuy just the thing 
She has many mansions fine, many business blocks combine 

Six or seven stories looming to the sky, 
Many others now incline, to be falling into line, 

And will build up m^ny mansions by and by. 



28 POEMS 

Education is her rule, and she has excellent schools, 

She will educate all students who will come; 
Here no child need be a fool, if sagacious as a mule, 

They can get an education right at home. 
She has universities, just as good ones, if you plaase, 

As are any in the wide world to be found; 
Yet through false pride some are pleased, of their money to 
be squeezed, 
And to send the child to Europe they are bound. 

If to churches you incline here the chance is superfine. 

To attend most any kind on Sabbath day; 
If you wish for strenght devine, you can fall right into line, 

But you'll have to live uprightly on the way. 
She has ministers devine of most ever} creed and kind. 

And they all seem to be working for the Lord; 
And their sermons all incline to be on the Bible line. 

But they differ on the meaning of the w^ord. 

Yet there really seems to be one thing on which they 
agree 

You must live the golden, rule in thought and deed, 
If done conscienciously, it will set your spirit free; 

A pure life of love will save you — not your creed. 
She has doctors many kinds, and they cure on many lines; 

Some the chronic, others all disease defy; 
Some will heal with pills benign, others heal through faith 
devine; 

If your faith is good you never need to die. 

Her hotels are really grand, and they are in big demand, 

For the travelers and visitors of late, 
When they in this city land^ think their ideas do expand 

As toi where the best. hotels are in the state. 
To maintain the public peace, she has many brave police, 

If to keep the law and order you should fail. 
Her sworn guardians of the peace soon your pocket book 
will fleece. 

Or will board you at our splendid county iail. 



POEMS 29 

She has lawyers not divine although many are benign. 

Wise and eloquent — of excellent report; 
If to law suits you incline — peace is much the cheapest line — 

Go and hire them to keep you out of court. 
She has free delivery, and your mail comes twice a day; 

'Tis no matter where you live, if rich or poor, 
You can write at home and stay, they will take your mail 
away. 

And bring all your mail that's coming to yo ir door. 

She has seven solid banks, to avoid thieves and cranks 

Yoa can there deposit all the cash you own. 
For its care they ask no thanks — always ready at the banks 

When you want it to invest or make a loan. 
They have millions of their own if you wish to get a loan 

They will make you terms that are extremely low; 
If you're favorably known or good property you own ; 

You can do no better anywhere you go. 

She has many men of late who are selling real estate 
And will thousands on your real estate advance. 

Or if you anticipate buying in another state 

They have splendid bargains waiting for a chance. 

Asa place for residence she is now par excellence. 
Her good people social, courteous and plain; 

It is said in her defense she entails as light expense 
As the cheapest town in Illinois domain. 

Her news papers stand the test — there's no better in the 
west — 

And they circulate the country far and wide. 
And it is at their behest Bloomington is now abreast 

Of the cities in our great commercial tide. 
And she has good people here whom to many hearts are 
dear. 

Who divide with sick and worthy helpless poor. 
The disinterested care that the charitable bear 

Will bring them a rich reward at heaven's door. 



30 POEMS 

She has music grand and sweet- -many instruments complete — 

Many teachers known to honor and to fame; 
We think it a real treat when an audience they greet 

And we always wish another of the same. 
She has youths whose skill is fine and whose talents are 
devine 

Who will for themselves achieve a glorious name, 
For their music now is prime — very soon will be sublime^ — 

And they proudly will ascend the mount of fame. 

She has gorgeous pleasure stands if its pleasure you demand 

And your happiness such pleasure so require. 
At the Coliseum land, or go over to the Grand 

You can there see anything that you desire. 
And her park has charms divine with a lake that's superfine. 

Many animals and birds within the zoo. 
When you wish for thoughts sublime and can spare a little 
time 

Then repair to Miller Park, it waits for you. 

Thou, dear city Bloomington, noble work thy sons have done. 

On the scroll of fame thy name will ever stand; 
Many laurels thou hast won — thy good work has just begun — 

Thy brave sons are justly honored o'er the land. 
Brighest gem unon the plain thou art destined to remain 

For progression is the watch-word of thy joys. 
Great will be thy temporal gain, to great culture thou 'It 
attain. 

Thou art now the inland queen of Illinois. 



POEMS 31 

RENDER EQUAL HONORS TO ALL. 

You are building up monuments, massive and high, 

To lift a few names out of reach, 
And lauding some heroes almost to the sky 

With eulogy's flattering speech. 
But I will pass on from this rage of renown, 

This narrow commotion and strife; 
Pass by where the granite and bronzes look down, 

And tell of a once noble life. 

On out to the comrades who lie 'neath the gloom. 

Of pitying graves where they fell, 
For I, while I honor the man with the plume, 

Will honor the private as well. 
I would not detract from the brave in command. 

Who led in the battle's array; 
Let those have due praise who, with musket in hand. 

Bore bravely the heat of the fray. 

For, had it not been for those heroic men. 

Who fought in combat with the gray. 
This union divided would surely have been 

A prey for all nations today. 
Those heroic soldier boys did well their part, 

Ne'er braver was king on his throne; 
The throb of each soldier boy's chivalrous heart 

Gave answering stroke to my own. 

I knew them, and through them the gold and alloy, 

Together ran equally free; 
I judge, as I trust God will judge each brave boy. 

For they were true patriots to me. 
'Midst cannons' loud roar, in the battle's eclipse. 

Life shook out its lingering sands; 
They died with the names that they loved on their lips. 

With musket still grasped in their hands. 



32 POEMS 

Up close to the front many braves met their doom, 

Up close to the flag mjany fell; 
While praising the men with the sword and the plume, 

Praise those with the musket as well. 
There's peace in the quiet and sweet restful hours 

That come when the day's work is done; 
And peace, with those brave ones who under the flowers 

Lie sleeping — their life's race is run. 

Old comrades in arms, in the fast waning years 

That lead to mortality's goal, 
With hearts full of love, oft with eyes full of tears, 

We hold you most dear to our soul. 
We march with the May, and its flowery charm.s, 

And tenderly lay on the sod 
A sweet, fragrant emblem, dear comrades in arms, 

Of love and approval of God. 



THE CRADLE OF LIBERTY 

(Is our Schools, and a reverence for tlie flag by celebrating 

our Natal Day.) 

Ye Sons of Columbia, rejoice that ye live in 

This fair land of freedom, we love as our own. 
And meet once each year on the day God hath given 

For Liberty's Goddess to sit on her throne. 
That day is enshrined in the hearts of the nation. 

And sealed with the blood of our patriot sires. 
So then on that glad day, whatever our station, 

Our hearts should be burning with patriot fires. 

Unfurl to the breeze the bright folds of Old Glory, 
To music march forth, let her wave o'er the stand. 

And tell to the people our nation's glad story 

Of blood-purchased freedom and bright happy land. 



POEMS 33 

And tell to our children how patriots freed it, 

And made the day sacred, that first g:ave it birth; 

And pledged it to freedom, for God had decreed it 
A haven for all the oppressed of the earth. 

Where man is the noblest work of creation, 

Each man is a monarch and should be content; 
His home is his kingdom, whatever his station; 

His rights are as sacred as if president. 
Our free schools are truly the cradle of knowledge. 

And mother of liberty; also the door 
To freedom and progress, and so is the college 

A glorious boon for the rich and the poor. 

Then rock every youth in that cradle of knowledge, 

For ignorance marks every man for a slave, . 
For liberty dwells in the school and the college. 

And there lies the power our freedom to save. 
Teach justice, and honor, and knowledge together; 

Instill in each heart what all just laws demand. 
To treat the whole world as your neighbor and brother, 

Thus cherish forever a free happy land. 

This heaven-blest country, the gem of the ocean. 

The heir of all nations since God gave her birth; 
She now stands the queen of all lands and all nations, 

And freedom'is destined to compass the earth. 
If God rules this nation he surely designed it 

A home where all men of all climes can remain 
And worship their God, as each conscience defines it. 

Where none dare molest, or against them complain. 

Then patriots are safe, have God's full approbation, 

Who left home and friends, to their country were true, 
And fought to defend and protect this great nation; 

With musket in hand, fell while wearing the blue. 
Then each natal day let us unfurl Old Glory 

And teach all the people that day to revere. 
By often repeating this nation's glad story. 

And floating from house-top the flag everywhere. 



34 POEMS 

FREEDOM. 

We're sailing on the ship of state, she's rocking fore and aft 
And every son of freedom should be skilled in statesmen's 

craft, 
And every enemy on board should be made to stand abaft^ 
And honor the laws of this great nation. 

Chorus : 

Hurrah! Hurrah! Let trusts no longer stay. 

Hurrah! Hurrah! Drive anarchy away; 

And let the grand old . ship of state triumphantly display 

The unsullied flag of this great nation. 
Is this a land of freedom, when the rich usurp the field, 
Combine and fix the prices, and consumers have to yield? 
As long as this we tolerate the poor man's fate is sealed. 

And he will be servant of the nation. 

Chorus : 

Is this a land of freedom, when the manufacturers' lust 
Has grown so strong that they create a sacrilegious trust,. 
Control the quantity and price of products so unjust, 
And swindle consumers of the nation? 

Chorus : 

Is this a land of freedom, when the railroad kin^s with ease 
Unite and pool their profits and fix any price they please; 
For hauling products of commerce, the people's pockets 
squeeze. 
And trample the rights of this great nation? 

Chorus : 

Is this a land of freedom, when the laborers form a trust 
And try to run all business by acts that are unjust. 
And he who heeds not their demands his plans they try 
to burst. 
And bring sore distress upon the nation? 



POEMS 35 

Chorus : 

Let every man remember that this country is not free 
While freedom uncontrolled grows bold and ends in tyranny 
And all combines that break the law engage in anarchy, 
Defying the laws of this great nation. 

Chorus : 

If we will learn what freedom means, and freedom will 

promote, 
And will protect the people's right whene'er we cast a vote, 
'Tis then the grand old ship of state triumphantly will float 
And freedom shall reign throughout the nation. 

Chorus : 

True freedom does not mean that we can do just as we 

please, 
And trample on our neighbor's rights; by fraud each other 

squeeze; 
But means to live the Golden Rule, which we can do with 

ease 
In this great enlightened Christian nation. 

Chorus : 

True freedom does not mean that we can swindle, cheat 

and steal. 
Or any other unjust act, against the public weal, 
But always means, if we are wronged, the case we can 

appeal 
To just judge and juries of the nation. 

Chorus : 

True freedom means the people rule, and righteous laws 

project. 
Which gives us sure protection if we other rights respect; 
No tyrant's arbitrary rule, nor monarch to object. 
But we help to rule our own great nation. 

Chorus : 



36 POEMS 

The Tariff should be the difference of cost in foreign lands, 
And cost of articles the same of our own home-made brands 
Then that would leave no margin on which wicked trusts 
could stand, 
And all would have justice in the nation. 

Chorus : 

When law makes him a criminal, who helps to form a trust, 
Such schemes for unjust money, as in many lines we're 

cursed, 
And officers enforce the law, such wiles and schemes will 

burst 
And this be a free and happy nation. 

Chorus : 

All inter-state utilities your Uncle Sam should own. 

And run them for the people; be the power behind the 

throne ; 
Municipal utilities, experience has shown, 
Should be run by the cities of the nation. 

Chorus: 

Each manufacturing plant that runs should to its workmen 

grant 
An equitable portion of the profits of the plant; 
Then such colossal fortunes as are o'er the land extant. 
Would justly be scattered through the nation. 

Chorus : 

All laboring men and capital should travel hand in hand, 
For one v/ithout the other one would meet with no demand. 
And idle would continue, which would desolate the land 
Of this wide-awake, progressive nation. 

Chorus : 



POEMS 37 



ADJUST THE LAWS. 



(Written in the interest of Western Agriculture and 
American Labor.) 

Awake, ye mighty laboring throng, 

Gird on your armor, strong and bright; 
Defend your rights, vote down the wrong, 

Haste, haste ye onward to the fight. 
Take justice for your General, 

On steeds of wisdom firmly ride; 
Take for your sword the ballot box. 

Let reason be your constant guide. 

For moneyed kings now proudly reign, 

With purse and pockets lined with gold, 
While ye are bound with slavery's chain 

And are by unjust laws controlled. 
The millionaire, he holds the bonds, 

And we're assessed his tax to pay, 
While he on luxuries daily feasts. 

We're forced to labor day by day. 

We pay for all, 'tis truly said, 

Their victuals we are made to carve. 
We furnish all' their daily bread; 

If we'd stop work the world would starve. 
We ship our produce to the east 

To feed the Tariff-protected rings. 
And with an unjust freight are fleeced 

Through trusts made by the railroad kings. 

And of the manufacturers 

Our goods are bought at prices high, 
For they're protected by a tariff 

That we must pay whene'er we buy. 
A tariff high has proved unjust, 

Creating margins broad and high 
On which to build a mighty trust 

And rob consumers when they buy. 



38 POEMS 

High tariff, men oft say 'tis true, 

That we have got a tariff on grain. 
And other western products too. 

And ask: "Pray why should we complain?" 
Ah, that sounds well, but be no fool, 

'Tis ours to sell, we don't import, 
Our price is fixed at Liverpool, 

We can't protect what we export. 

They also say high tariff will make 

All kinds of laborers' wages high. 
And for the laboring man's dear sake 

We ought to make protection high. 
Be not deceived, we cannot stay 

By tariff; the foreign laborer when 
He comes, who will employers pay 

According to supply of men. 

The laboring men they must compete 

With all who come from foreign lands, 
A tariff on what he buys to eat 

And all he wears he has to stand. 
If labor then you would protect, 

All foreign laborers turn away. 
Let Uncle Sam as tariff collect 

From all who come, one-half their pay. 

The labor fields would then be clear. 

For men who labor day by day ; 
Protection all alike would share. 

And foreign labor stay away. 
It must be so, or else reduce 

The tariff on what we eat and wear 
To just the difference to produce. 

Or ship from foreign markets here. 

They also boast that factories make 
For us a m.arket close at hand; 



POEMS 39 



What good to us if we must take 

A price that's fixed by foreign lands? 

Their trusts are so adroitly made 
They fill the manufacturer's purse; 

No imports made, no revenue paid, 
And to consumers are a curse. 

Let laboring men of every brand 

Unite upon one common plane, 
And vote together, hand in hand. 

That all their sacred rights may gain. 
Let education be the source 

To show the wrongs you long have borne; 
United ballots be the force 

That places justice on her throne. 

Take off the tariff, that now they boast, 

On imports from a foreign shore. 
Except the difference in cost 

Between the making here and there. 
With such a tariff, fair and just. 

On goods and products of the earth, 
Untramelled by a wicked trust, 

All things would sell for actual worth. 

Then mighty, noble, laboring throng, 

High tariff and trusts ye should dissect, 
Throw off the curse ye've borne so long. 

Thereby the people's rights protect. 
The rig'ht is yours good laws to make, 

Then yield it not to cliques and rings. 
Teach money sharks to fear and quake. 

The scepter take from railroad kings. 

Select ye men to make the laws. 

Whose interests are with yours allied. 

Whose hearts are with the people's cause, 
Whom you can look upon with pride. 



40 POEMS 

Then strike, ye mightly laboring throng; 

Gird on yovir armor strong and bright; 
Defend your rights, vote down the wrong; 

Haste, haste ye, onward to the fight. 

Ye sons of toil arise and free 

From unjust rule and tyranny 
This glorious land, America, 

This blood-bought land of liberty. 
Stand firmly by the people's cause. 

Instruct your lawmakers to see 
By wise and equitable laws 

That poor as well as rich are free. 



AN ADDRESS TO LABOR. 

(Both city and rural.) 

Capital of late is bold, to combine and get a hold 

On the public, and their ample purses drain. 
And this truth I will unfold, that you always will be sold 

Until you adjust the laws that you maintain. 
You have no protecting care, from the laws in which you 
-share, 

'Gainst your labor every nation can compete, 
Then why do you vote to bear such discriminating fare, 

And accomplish by your votes your own defeat? 

If the laws a tariff would lay on all men who come this way 

From all foreign lands to labor, and for gain. 
And collect one-half their pay; in their native lands they'd 
stay, 

Then you could your price on labor well maintain. 
You should change the tariff wall, that in legislative hall 

Your lawmakers have built for the money king; 
You should by your votes install laws to benefit us all. 

Equally and just alike in everything. 



POEMS 41 

Tariff is mother of the trust, a plain truth, confess you 
must, 

Trusts control products and prices of today. 
A united vote would burst every sacrilegious trust 

And supply — demand, make prices on the way. 
Tariff, take from every line, that is run by a combine 

Formed to get fictitious prices when they sell, 
Then your living will in fine cost much less in every line 

And you then can have some luxuries as well. 

And you farmers should reflect that the law connot protect, 

By a tariff, any product you export; 
When lawmakers you elect, this fact you should recollect, 

You export farm products and do not import. 
I beg you be not deceived when they ask yon to believe 

That you have protection for your grain and meat. 
From such laws as now aggrieve you should vote a quick 
reprieve, 

Laws that are for you a financial defeat. 

It is only a decoy when they say that you enjoy 

A protection on farm products for support, 
As the surplus you enjoy, all protection does destroy. 

For you always have a surplus to export. 
And the railroads all combine, raise the freights on every 
line, 

And your profits clip unjustly when you sell. 
Manufacturers fall in line and go into a combine 

And unjustly raise on what you buy as well. 

Farmers' labor, true, benign, raises bread for every line, 

And the laborer their victuals daily carve. 
Labor should of every line, form one grand voting combine. 

Hold all trusts to righteous laws or let them starve. 
Now you men who daily toil, and ye tillers of the soil, 

You will never get full justice and your dues 
Until by your votes you foil, and the machinations spoil. 

Of the men who now their privilege abuse. 



42 POEMS 

Uncle Sam -should run and own, be the power behind the 
throne, 

Of all interstate utilities today, 
And experience has shown that each city now should own 

All her street cars, lights and water — it will pay. 
If you always will be fools, and the corporation's tools, 

You deserve the fate that they for you prepare; 
You should change the present rules, run your own finan- 
cial schools. 

Guard your laws and your lawmakers with great care. 

And you never will succeed, control avarice and greed, 

Until in the halls of congress you procure 
A majority to lead, and pass laws for which you plead 
Wise and just, that will your right to you secure. 



AN ADDRESS TO LABOR. 

Labor unions are all right, if you wage a peaceful fight, 

And decide your peaceful battles at the polls; 
But whene'er you swerve from right your success will 
grow less bright 

If you fail the lawful mandates to uphold. 
You are not from law exempt, it is vain when you attempt 

To control by force or boycot any line. 
And for such a rash attempt you incur the just contempt 

Of good men, and you deserve a heavy fine. 

When you strike and work refuse, and non-union men abuse 

And the labor of all men try to control, 
It is anarchy you choose, and the sympathy you loose 

Of good men who would have helped you at the polls. 

You by your financial lust have a far more dangerous trust 
Than has capital; it only works for gain. 



POEMS 43 

While in trying its power to burst you both friend and foe 
disgust, 
When you peace and life and liberty disdain. 

And it plainly can be seen your own house you need to 
clean, 

And discipline all on whom you now depend. 
Then a barrier now between you and full success serene 

Will be swept away and you'll retain your friends. 

Now most every long dispute, when it comes to a law suit, 
Has two sides from which to view the matter o'er; 

And oft-times the most astute will the other side refute. 
While the justice of the case they both ignore. 

Now it truly can be said, how would people all be fed 
If all capital investments would decline? 

Some would have to go to bed, and soon many would be 
dead; 
Laboring men could find no work along the line. 

Do you think that men will run and do business for fun. 
And donate to labor all that can be made? 

If no profits can be won they will quit where they begun, 
And the labor be left lying in the shade. 

I regret to have to say that you have some men today 
Who like much by other unions to be fed; 

When they want a holiday they will strike and have a play. 
If they think their own employers can be bled. 

Any person wishing work, whom their duty will not shirk. 
Can get steady work and wages every day; 

It is only those who shirk, or some vain dishonest clerk. 
Who have need to tramp for wages far away. 

Every man who has a care with his family to share 
All the proceeds of his labor, day by day, 



44 POEMS 

Can for all have decent fare, have enough to eat and wear, 
If he neither drinks nor gambles on the way. 

You have many men today who work well when not at play, 
But in support of their families they fail; 

When night comes they hie away, spend the wages of the 
day 
In saloons, and sometimes lodge within the jail. 

And you often hear them bawl that their wages are too 
small. 

That they never can a family support, 
And when in the union hall they vociferously call 

For a strike for better pay on which to sport. 

Those who drink and loaf at night, always foremost in the 
fight, 

Are as lice upon the city where they thrive; 
Often want to strike and fight when the wages are all right ; 

Want the biggest share of honey in the hive. 

Many times you rush ahead, are by others blindly led. 
When the price is not exactly what you like. 

You can have more cash ahead and can be much better fed 
If you work instead of going on a strike. 

If you prices would adjust and would regulate the trust. 
You must do it through the ballot at the polls; 

Select men whom you can trust to make laws both wise 
and just. 
That all immigrants and tariff will control. 

Lay a tax on every man who comes from a foreign land 
To compete with you for labor of the day; 

And one-half his pay demand for a labor tax to stand. 
Then the foreigner will kindly stay away. 



POEMS 45 

THE PATRIOTISM OF PEACE. 

(Sung to the tune of "Marching Through Georgia.") 

Honor give to heroes, who defended us in war; 
Honor to the brave on land, and also to the tar; 
Glorify that valiant band who carry many a scar 
For the defense of this great nation. 

Chorus : 

Hurrah! Hurrah! Let wars forever cease. 
Hurrah! Hurrah! Let harmony increase. 
Patriotism now we need to build a lasting peace; 
Peace to perpetuate this nation. 

Glory to the memory of our immortal dead; 
Died within the hospitals, in battles where they bled. 
But for their great sacrifice our freedom would have fled. 
They paid the cost for this great nation. 

Chorus : 

Glorious freedom purchased by their blood and wodows' 

tears, ^ 
Let us keep inviolate forever, endless years. 
Guard it as a heritage from Angels of the Spheres; 
Bought with their blood for this great nation. 

Chorus : 

Foreign nations know the prowess of our soldier boy; 
Recognize his power other armies to destroy; 
Recognize the honor o'er the world that we enjoy. 
All stand in awe of this great nation. 

Chorus : 

Deadly roar of battles fall no longer on the ear. 
Foreign nations treat our flag with honor everywhere. 
North and South united the same glorious banner bear; 
Yet we have foes within the nation. 

Chorus: 



46 POEMS 

Foes within more dangerous than those who dwell afar; 
Avarice and greed and lust degrade us more than war. 
Honor, justice, charity, should be our guiding star. 
Such will perpetuate a nation. 

Chorus : 

Men in high position oft betray the public weal, 
Sell their sacred honor and in many ways they steal. 
When weighed in the balance and their perfidy revealed; 
Sorely demoralize this nation. 

Chorus : 

Corporations have no soul, their greed is unsurpassed, 
Bid defiance to the laws, while fortunes they amass. 
Avaricious tyrants, they oppress the common class, 
Getting the profits of the nation. 

Chorus : 

Many now manipulate our food just as they will; 
Mix it with cheap nostrums their own purses soon to fill> 
Caring not how many unsuspecting ones they kill. 
Shame and disgrace confronts this nation. 

Chorus : 

Greed so vast and virulent, for much ill-gotten pelf, 
Soon will blight this nation and will lay her on the shelf. 
Patriots of peace, awake and save her from herself. 
Thus you'll perpetuate this nation. 

Chorus : 
This is God's own haven for all worthy and oppressed. 
Such of foreign nations come to us for peace and rest. 
Greed and lust is sacrilege in this land of the blest. 
Tainting the morals of this nation. 

Chorus: 
Each one an integral part of this great commonwealth. 
Individuals must be pure if nations have good health. 
Let us cleanse our impure hearts from avarice and stealth. 
Thus will we purify the nation. 

Chorus : 



POEMS * 47 

Be a patriot for peace, it is a noble cause. 
Vote for public servants who strictly enforce the laws. 
Men who do their dutj^ always win the world's applause. 
Such will perpetuate this nation. 

Chorus : 

Give us men of honor for our legislative halls; 
Give us judge and jurors true, when sacred duty calls. 
Send dishonest tricksters to adorn the prison walls. 
Thus you'll perpetuate this nation. 

Chorus : 

Give us Folks and Hanleys when you man the ships of 

state; 
Bryans for the pilots and LaFolletts for the mates; 
Roosevelts for the captains, and the crews will be kept 

straight. 
Then we will have a prosperous nation. 

Chorus : 



THE LAW OF COMPENSATION AND RETRIBUTION. 

The law of compensation, 

Inexorable and sure; 
The law of retribution 

Pays full measure, often more. 

Then let each one be brave and true, 

And always on his guard; 
Each word or act we say or do 

Will bring its just reward. 

If in your heart the world you love, 

And you are kind and true. 
Your actions will the world improve, 

The world will then love you. 



48 POEMS 

If to the world you kindness show, 
You'll get what is your due; 

The world much kindness will bestow, 
And with its love bless you. 

But if you measure to the world. 
Envy, malice and strife, 

The same will come to you ten-fold; 
Bitter will be your life. 

A word or act, though good or bad, 
Will bring its duplicate; 

You will rejoice or will be sad. 
Just as you may dictate. 

Then let your life the world impress 
With love and kindness true. 

Do all you can the world to bless 
'T will live long after you. 

Lret every act and word be good 
Give to the world your best, 

Meet all in loving brotherhood 
And you'll be ever blest. 

If all the world would realize 
That compensation's laws 

And retribution just and wise 
Will reward every cause, 

And bring to them the measure 
That they do to others mete, 

'T would fill this world with pleasure 
And this life would be more sweet. 



POEMS 49 

MUSIC. 

(The following lines were written for a Friday evening 
Essay while attending school at Wesleyan University in 
1855, at Bloomington, 111., and never before printed.) 

O, music, thy melody all do admire, 
Though all have not talent thy art to acquire. 
A natural genius some glady possess, 
While others fail even thy notes to express. 

O, charmingly sweet are thy soft trilling notes, 
They fall on my ear and enchantingly float; 
They fill the glad heart with a rapturous zeal 
That none but the happy hath power to feel. 

O, music, thy power the soul it inspires 
With blissful emotions and lovely desires. 
Directing our thoughts to the heavens above, 
To God who looks down with compassion and love. 

The soul of Apollo still playing the lyre, 

And Spirit of Marcius' flute in the air. 

Still charms with a power, most sweet and sublime. 

Refined by the ages — increasing with time. 

When artist is playing the harp or the lyre. 
Violin or piano, with notes loud and clear. 
Or nature's grand organ, the sweet human voice. 
Thou makest the depths of the soul to rejoice. 

Yet issuing forth from the sweet human voice 
Are tones more divine, more exquisitely choice, 
That charms with a power the soul and the mind; 
Far sweeter than all other music combined. 

No grander conception of heaven have we 
Than oft to the soul is suggested by thee; 
The Father above, as thy melodies roll. 
Through thy magic notes ever speal^s to the soul. 



50 POEMS 

There's something sublime as thy notes float along, 
That tells us of joy and of bliss yet unknown; 
They cheer us with charms that we truly confess 
We joyously feel, but cannot express. 

To thy magic power the savage will yield; 
Thy charms maketh tame the wild beasts of the field. 
Thou'rt a heaven-born blessing of counless worth; 
Indeed thou'rt a foretaste of heaven on earth. 

The Father hath clothed thee with sweet chords of cheer. 

While angels attend with a listening ear. 

Our souls catch the bliss thou to angels hast given 

And visit in spirit the mansions in heaven. 



LOVE. 

Since God is love, then love is life, and good, 
And love deals justly with what is his own. 

He made the world for one great brotherhood, 
From peasant to the king upon his throne. 

Love is divine, love is of heavenly birth. 

'Tis pure affection, love is grand, sublime; 
When cultivated here upon the earth. 

Luxuriantly it blooms in every clime. 

A precious boon, a joy it doth impart. 

No sweeter joy or bliss can e'er be given; 
Designed to soften every selfish heart. 

And guide our wayward souls to peace and heaven. 

When in the bosom burns love's sacred fire. 
We are content to feel the passion burn; 

Consuming selfish purpose and desire. 
We take no heed if it brings no return. 



POEMS 5t 

It hides a mighty multitude of faults, 

Gives to the heart great pleasure and good cheer. 
The favored heart that tender love exalts, 

Is rich beyond all else, beyond compare. 

Love was designed for every human soul, 
And 'tis in giving love's best rapture lies; 

And he who hath not loved hath missed his goal. 
'Tis love that binds the world to heaven's ties. 

Lovers sharpest grief, with subtlest pleasure lies; 

Love is the same with peasant, lord, or kings. 
Love is its own reward, which heaven supplies. 

The same sweet passion subtlest pleasure brings. 

Love o'er the world a conquering sovereign refgns; 

Leap-s over mountains, verdant plains and streams; 
Defies all prisons, with their locks and chains, 

AndN-isits us in sweet nocturnal dreams. 

Defies the ocean's boistrous rolling waves, 

With lightning speed it leaps from shore to shore; 

And often from ill fate the convict saves. 
And oft its power unlocks the prison door. 

It soothes the many sorrows of this life. 

Peace is its beacon light, its guiding star. 
True love will teach the trusting man and wife 

To be a loving, helpful, happy pair. 

If every nation, land, and tongue could see 
That love to fill each heart was freely given. 

Then love would reign supreme eternally, 
And every land on earth would be a heaven. 

A mother's love hath wondrous force and power 
When she would aid her children in distress; 

Her prayers and tears in darkest trying hour. 
Like guardian angels shield them for to bless. 



52 POEMS 

No greater love did mortals ever know 

Than Jesus Christ to fallen man hath given. 

He gave his life, none greater love can snow, 

That sinners through his love can enter heaven. 

Where love supreme hath conquered every foe. 
And filled the hearts of all that happy throng, 

'Tis love can soothe each sorrow and each woe, 
And only love can triumph over wrong. 



SLANDER. 



I have heard it faintly hinted. 

With a wink, also a smile, 
By one of my closest neighbors. 

Who I thought was free from guile. 

Next I heard it in a whisper 
From my neighbor next in line; 

Now "The facts you must not mention," 
Said she, with an air divine. 

Once again I heard the rumor. 
And this time 'twas spoken out. 

And this one gave particulars, 
Also peddled it about. 

Thus one innocent was shadowed 
With a stain upon his name, 

Without one thing to verify 
Or justify the blame. 

If thy neighbor is not perfect. 

By example do not fail 
To show him he is in error. 

Let another tell the tale. 



POEMS 53 

Then dear friends I here implore thee, 

Put a bridle on thy tong^ue. 
Lest thy neighbors should deplore thee, 

Guard thy tongue from every wrong. 



TOBACCO. 



Tobacco is a curse to man, 

A poison to the brain. 
For many from the cigarette 

At last become insane. 

And those who chew, expectorate 

And spit their strength away; 
Their breath smells like a slaughter house; 

You wish it far away. 

And those who smoke, weaken their nerves 

A little day by day; 
They soon become a nervous wreck, 

Their muscles waste away. 

And oh, their breath and filthy mouth! 

Let every one in youth 
Beware of such a filthy curse. 

Indecent and uncouth. 

And then the hard-earned money spent 

Is worse than thrown away. 
Their earnings and their vigor gone, 

Still going day by day. 

And many a tobacco fiend, 

Homeless will sadly roam, 
And for tobacco spend the wealth 

That would have bought a home. 



54 POEMS 

O, if I was a lady fair, 
No man could marry me 

Who used tobacco any way; 
From his embrace I'd flee. 

And if my husband did begin, 
After the knot was tied, 

I'd call for a divorce from him, 
And out of that I'd slide. 



HOW TO BE HAPPY. 

^Tis being, and doing, and having, that make 

All pleasures and pains of which mortals partake. 

You are as God made you, with unfolding mind. 

If you would be happy, endeavor to find 

A helpmate congenial, both honest and true. 

Be honest and faithful, whatever you do; 

IJise all your spare moments unfolding your mind. 

In doing your duty, you'll happiness find. 

If you will be guided by justice and right, 
And stick to your purpose with valor and might, 
And do not succeed, and your purpose complete. 
Your conscience will bless you, although in defeat. 
But he who is right rarely ever will fail; 
Truth, honor and justice should always prevail. 
Then stick to the right, if you wish to succeed, 
For he who is right will be happy indeed. 

In having, if you enjoy what you possess. 

It must come honestly, if you it bless. 

For he who possesses much ill-gotten gain. 

He cannot be happy if it he retain. 

Then be what God made you, do alw^ays your best, 

And be true and faithful, if you would be blest. 

Pursue for your calling your natural bent. 

And you will be happy and will be content. 



POEMS 55 

SUCCESS. 

To whom this comes, greeting; give ear to my story. 

Who soon will embark on the journey of life, 
That you may be crowned with success and full glory; 

A hint from your friend might with blessings be rife. 

Select occupation, a trade, or profession; 

Ohoose something congenial, by which you can live; 
Stick close to your work until in your possession 

All knowledge and skill your instructor can give. 

Then gird on your armor, with honest endeavor 
Proceed with your work, set your talisman high; 

Wliate'er may oppose, never falter, no never, 

Success crowns the man who with firmness will try. 

The man without energy, purpose, or calling. 
And void of ambition, who lies on the shelf; 

In other men's traps he is constantly falling; 

The world helps the man who will first help himself. 

And while on life's journey, if trials offend you. 

And time with the gold also brings you some dross, 

Stick close to your line and success will attend you; 
A stone that keeps rolling will gather no moss. 

A great many men, wealthy, honest and clever, 
Are men born where poverty lurked in the door; 

By close application and honest endeavor 

Abound now in wealth, who in childhood were poor. 

The man who succeeds, starts aright and stays by it, 
And hangs to the willows with body and soul; 

Whate'er may oppose, he'll press on and defy it, 
By firm will and energy reaching the goal. 



56 POEMS 

WATCH THE TIDE AND HUSTLE. 

No matter what your calling, or your occupation be. 
The room is plenty at the top, the way for all is free; 
Be always ready to mount every stepping stone you see; 
Your actions and purpose will commend you. 

Don't sleep away your chances till another will observe, 
And gather in the prizes while you halt for want of nerve. 
If you get up and hustle you will get what you deserve. 
And sure success will then attend you. 

There's honors plenty to go round, and wealth enough to 

spare. 
Then never falter on the way until you win your share. 
For he will wear fame's laurel wreath, who honestly gets 

there. 
The world will applaud and tell the story. 

Then watch the tide, be wide away, honest, upright and 

true ; 
Strike hardest while the iron's hot in every thing you do; 
And you will have a host of friends, your enemies be few; 
In age you'll receive a crown of glory. 

Then make each opportunity a step upon the way, 
Let honor and integrity your every action sway. 
If you press upward step by ptep, you'll surely win the day. 
And good men's approval will be given. 

And if you have a brother who is worthy, feeble, slow, 
Who needs a friendly helping hand the i^roper course to 

show, 
Lead him across the turbid stream, show him the way to go 
And you will receive reward in heaven. 



POEMS 57 

PROMPT ACTION IS THE KEY TO SUCCESS. 

(The following lines can be sung to the air, "Marching 
Through Georgia.") 

If you, from indecision, loiter on and lose today, 
*Twill be the same tomorrow in your dilatory way, 
For every indecision you indulge will bring delay, 
And you'll be less able to command, sir. 

Chorus : 

Hurrah! Hurrah! If you would make it pay. 
Hurrah! Hurrah! Then lose no time today. 
For every moment that you lose is gone and gone to stay. 
And you are still nearer to the grave, sir. 

If you have need to do a thing, and it is in your power> 
Decide at once to do it, and commence this very hour. 
If you meet opposition, do not hesitate and cower. 
But do what your needs and will demand, sir. 

Chorus : 

A forceful and determined will the means will soon suggest, 
And all such opposition melt away and be suppressed. 
And add unto your force of mind more strength for future 
tests 
To get what in future you desire. 

Chorus : 

Only commence, the thing is sure, you then more strength 

will gain, 
Your interest be increasing as your object you obtain; 
The work will be completed and a conqueror you will reign. 
The world will applaud and will admire. 

Chorus: 

Wait not until tomorrow for what should be done today, 
For things done at the proper time in many ways will pay. 
While many losses you'll incur from neglect and delay. 
The prompt man will soon get to the top, sir. 

Chorus: 



158 POEMS 

OPPORTUNITY. 

You will not say I come but once, and then return no more. 
If you a daily vigil keep when I knock at your door. 
For every day I'm at your door, that you success may win. 
And bid you open wide the door and let success come in. 

Though dire affliction be your lot, have courage, do not 

mourn. 
For very long must be the lane that never has a turn. 
The worthy do not strive in vain, nor have to beg their 

bread ; 
I clothe all honest, worthy poor, and see that they are fed. 

If you have come too late today, my star you did not see. 
Bo out on time tomorrow, and you surely will find me; 
For I am watching every day to find whom I can serve. 
And if you come to me in time you'll get what you deserve. 

Grieve not for chances you have missed that never can 

return, 
The records of misfortunes I each night essay to bum; 
Let vanished griefs and sorrows be forgotten, then be true. 
And rise each morn for chances new, that I prepare for you. 

'Tis seldom wealth or honor cdme by accident or fate, 
And many who attain success work early, also late; 
Their vigils keep, and watch for me lest I should pass 

them by; 
I help all those who say they can, and get right out and 

try. 



HOPE. 

There's not a heart so dreary 
That time cannot heal in years. 

There's not a day so cloudy 
But the light of day appears. 



POEMS 59 



The sun will shine the brighter 
When the atmosphere clears. 

There's not a dream so horrid 
But the waking brings delight. 

There's not a li^e so cheerless 

But it has some rays of light. 
On the right side of the picture 

It is always still more bright. 
There's not a cup so bitter 

But it can be made more sweet, 
And not a path so rugged 

But it can be trod by feet. 
We first have to clear the way 

Of all obstacles we meet. 
There's not a m.an so destitute, 

If his health and strength abide. 
But can have com.forts plenty 

If with care he'll watch the tide, 
And diligently hustle, 

All his needs can be supplied. 

There's not a maid so homely. 

If she keeps in perfect state. 
But in this cold world somewhere 

Can find a loving mate. 
Kind words and acts of kindness 

Will enlist him soon or late. 
There's not a married couple. 

Who have trouble on the way. 
But soon can have it pleasant 

As the flowers that bloom in May, 
If they show love and kindness 

To each other day by day. 
There's not a heart so hardened 

But it has one tender spot; 
The blood of Christ can soften 

And wash every stain and blot. 
Tis free just for the asking. 

Sinner, O, forget it not. 



ep POEMS 

SECRET OF CONTENT. 

*Tis not a vast amount of gold that brings you sweet 
content, 

And soothes the restless, grasping heart, with many pleas- 
ures blent; 

It is not fabulous amounts of stocks and bonds on hand, 

Nor is it ready cash in bank, payable on demand. 

Nor is it fame throughout the earth, nor genius on your 

part. 
Nor heritage of noble birth that satisfies the heart. 
Possession will not shield the mind from cares that daily 

haunt; 
The only thing that brings content is what we do not want 

If you are modest in your w^ants, suppress each vain desire. 
To what in reason you expect, to what you should aspire. 
Covet no more than is your due, accept what God hath sent. 
And be satisfied with what you are, then you will be 
content. 

If truly you are satisfied with blessings God hath given. 
And satisfied with what you have, and honestly have 

striven; 
Lret others worry and complain, and nurse their discontent; 
With honest purpose do your best, and you will be content. 

You cannot change Dame Nature's laws, which God hath 

made for man. 
But you can change environments, though life is but a span. 
With honest purpose do your best with what the Lord hath 

sent, 

God will your honest efforts bless, then you will be content. 
Then if we ever are content, our wants we must curtail 
To what is just and right for us, then we will seldom fail. 
If we will do the best we can, with honest purpose blent. 
Our modest wants will be supplied and w^e will be content. 



POEMS 61 

LIFE. 

Spring awakens from her slumber, 

With her balmy sun and rain; 
Blessings bring of countless number; 

Brings the earth to life again. 

Summer clothes the fields and meadows 

With rich verdure, green and fair; 
Autumn brings the golden harvest. 

Fruit and grain, both rich and rare. 

Winter chills earth back to slumber. 

With its hoary frost doth reap 
Fruits and flowers and all verdure; 

Calls all nature back to sleep. 

Life's an emblem of the seasons; 

In its childhood, like the spring. 
If controlled by truth and reason, 

Oft much hope and promise brings. 

Youth, like summer's variant prospects. 
Filled with ardent hopes and fears, 

As you sow and cultivate it. 
Brings you happiness or tears. 

Middle age, like autumn, bearing 

Fruit from seed that you have grown. 

Brings you woe or joy and pleasure. 
You will reap what you have sown. 

Old age, like the winter season. 

Garners up what you have blest; 
If 'tis truth and love and reason. 

You will have a blissful rest. 



62 POEMS 

DARE TO DO RIGHT. 

When I was young I knew a man, who lived across the 

way, 
He had a very slanderous tongue, yet tried to preach and 

pray; 
His neighbors would not go to hear the slang he tried to 

blow, 
He'd crowd the stand when others preached, and try to 

make it go. 

The preacher wouM extend to him a friendly attitude; 
Before the close, invited him the meeting to conclude. 
*Twas then in truth, the fun began, the boys were 

tickled so, 
With laughter they would often burst; he couldn't make 

it go. 
Now, Christian friends, take my advicg, if others you 

would teach. 
Let all your words and acts be good before you try to 

preach; 
For if your daily walk is bad, your neighbors soon will 

know, 
And leave you hunting for a job; you cannot make it go. 

Another one I knew in youth, and scanty was his store; 
A gourmand of the purest type, his stomach kept him poor. 
'Tis said he ate a dozen quails, still wanted more, you 

know. 
And ate good apples by the peck; he made the victuals go. 
He seldom cut, or combed his hair, it really was a sight; 
He sat at church one Sunday night, near by the candle 

light; 
In leaning back too close the light his hair caught fire, you 

know, 
He danced a double shuffle then, trying to make it go. 

And now, dear friends, whene'er you eat, do try and be 
content: 



POEMS 63 

To guard your appetites with care, 'twill pay a big per cent 
And lest, like this dear little man, your hair catch fire, 

you know. 
Keep hair and whiskers neatly trimmed; then you can 

make it go. 
I knew another, big and strong, who always had a plan 
By which he would exterminate, or whip some other man. 
But when his man came to the front, for battle made a 

show. 
That windy man was not on hand; he failed to make it go. 

If you are blessed with health and strength, your rights 

you would protect, 
Do not tramp on your neigfhbor's toes, his sacred rights 

re'^pect; 
His love and kindness you'll secure, and soon will come to 

know. 
That kindness is the only way that you can make it go. 
And still another one I knew, who would a neighbor strike; 
He had the nerve at sixty-five, to whip young Jacob Zike. 
His great big boys soon came to think they more than dad 

did know; 
He came with mowing scythe in hand; he surely made 

'em go. 

His cows went to a neighbor's field, and o'er the fence 

they went; 
His neighbor chased them with his d^g, and they were 

homeward sent. 
He went and cursed his neighbor blue, with loud and 

angry tone; 
He said: "Now, sir, I'll draw my coat; then I will draw 

your own." 
His neighbor was a quiet man, and not inclined to fight. 
Then Isaac came to father's house in somewhat better 

plight. 
Exultantly, he told the fact of his unpleasant show, 
And said : "If curse is in the heart, 'tis best to make it go." 



64 POEMS 

Come, all ye fractious, nervous men, be always on your 

guard; 
No matter what the cross may be, in action, deed, or word; 
Let reason sit upon her throne, the proper course to show. 
Do as you'd have them do to you; then you can make it go. 



THE PSYCHOLOGICAL CHORD. 

Thy thoughts and thy actions influence thy neighbor 
For good or for evil, as thou may direct; 

Then let thy example, without fear or favor. 
Be such as to merit his love and respect. 

Thy thoughts, they are things often caught by another. 
While passive, and brain in a receptive plight. 

Thus thou are the keeper oft-times of thy brother. 

Then keep thy thoughts pure that thou guide him aright. 

There is a strong sympathy binding together 
With magnetic power the whole human race; 

It winds through each heart a mysterious tether. 
In every kind action its presence we trace. 

It winds through the hearts of each land and each nation. 
While sojourning here on this earthly domain. 

And when our friends pass to that bright spirit station 
That chord reaches out and unites us again. 

No matter how high or how humble our calling, 

Our thougOits and our actions the world will impress; 

If noble and pure, lift up those who are falling, 

And charm with a power the whole world to bless. 

But all impure thoughts, selfish deeds, unkind actions, 
Are felt everywhere on that magnetic wave; 

A message is sent on that chord of attraction. 
Impressing its victims from cradle to grave. 



POEMS 65 

Then through loving thoughts let us influence others 

And hold them, through kindness, that magnetic chain 
And likewise acknowledge all men as our brothers. 

And raise them through love to a high moral plane. 
That magnetic chord, with its strong mystic tether. 

Hath bridged o'er the chasm to that world beyond; 
And through loving thoughts we can soon call together 

Those who are in spirit, who promptly respond. 



GUARD WELL THY THOUGHTS. 

Thy actions are an index of thy thoughts, 
Thy countenance a symbol of thy heart. 

If thou wouldst be without a stain or blot, 

Then bid all impure thoughts from thee depart. 

Thy mind upon thy body deep and strong 

Is stamped so all who heed the marks may find 

The impress of its lines for right or wrong; 
Thy destiny is governed by thy mind. 

Indulge no evil thoughs, they weave a chain 
Whose subtle links thou ever will deplore. 

Let none but pure thoughts in thy heart remain, 
And thou on wings of love will safely soar. 

"Can I control my thoughts?" thou fain would ask. 

Yes! If thou place thy moral beacon high, 
'Twill soon become a very easy task. 

And will become a pleasure by and by. 

This motto place upon thy beacon light: 
Truth, Virtue, Honor, Charity and Love; 

And always keep it in thy memory bright. 
And it a perfect talisman will prove. 



66 POEMS 

And thus, if evil thoughts come to thy mind, 
To shun the cause will drive them all away. 

Thy talisman will then be ever kind, 

And give thee strength to conquer day by day. 

A passing bird may light upon thy head; 

Thou dost not have to let it there remain. 
One thrust and it will very soon have fled, 

And it will never trouble thee again. 

The firm resolve of a determined soul 
Will stop opposing forces, soon or late; 

No circumstance will hinder or control; 
No power as the human will so great. 

No obstacle can stay the mighty force 

Of Mississippi's waters to the sea, 
Or stop the earth from moving in its course; 

A mighty will hath fixed their destiny. 

Likewise, he who succeeds and wins the goal 
Is he whose honest purpose never swerves; 

Whose thoughts and acts the one great aim control, 
Eternal justice brings what he deserves. 



COMPEND OF THE DOCTRINE OF PREDESTINATION, 

(The author believes in the free moral agency of man 
and wrote the following lines to more vividly show the 
absurdity of the doctrine- of predestination.) 

When God made man it was his will 

That part of his creation 
Should wear a magic coat of mail, 

And fill his heavenly station. 



POEMS 67 

The rest he doomed to endless flames. 

Where they cannot expire; 
He Satan made, to list their names. 

And kindle up the fire. 

Those who are chosen, fore-ordained. 

For heaven are elected; 
By will or acts they cannot change 

The end for them selected. 

He fore-ordained for each a trail, 

He's bound that they shall track it; 
He clothes each with a coat of mail, 

A magic iron jacket. 

Those m.agic jackets are so nice, 

A charming thing to wear, sir; 
If born in one it will suffice, 

You'll have no cross to bear, sir. 

If you should murmur or complain 

And should refuse to wear it. 
Your murmuring will be in vain. 

He'll make you grin and bear it. 

From his decree there's no appeal; 

All those whom he selected 
Can murder, lie, and cheat, and steal. 

And will not be rejected. 

For when they die and heavenward sail, 

Should Satan overtake them 
And see their magic coats of mail 

He'll very soon forsake them. 

If you are chosen prior to birth, 

And heaven made your portion. 
Your privileges here on earth 

Are boundless as the ocean; 



68 POEMS 

To get much cash and pleasures too, 

No matter how selected, 
If you'll be sure, what e'er you do, 

That you are not detected. 

Then why should preachers waste their breath, 

Except for earthly union? 
It will not change you after death. 

Your portion or communion. 

If you are one of God's elect, 

Blest will be your condition, 
But if he did not you select 

You'll go down to perdition. 



THE THREE WISHES, 

Three boys their wishes did express; 

One dark, with brilliant curling hair; 
One tall, erect, with bland address; 

One unassuming, calm and fair. 

*T wish," quoth he with curling hair, 
**For wealth, for gold, and courtly life; 

Were I a wealthy millionaire 

All maids would wish to be my wife." 

*T wish for fame throughout the earth," 
The tall one said, with bland address; 

"An heiress wed, of noble birth. 
Who will by acts her love confess." 

Then gently spoke the third and said, 
"I wish for love; a loving wife; 

If trials come and tears be shed. 

True love will soothe the trials of life." 



POEMS 69 

Years passed, again there chanced to be 
Three men, and all were bowed with years, 

Relating each his destiny. 

His joys through life, also his tears. 

This spoke the one with curling hair, 
"My wealth of jewels, and my gold, 

Attracted one with stately air, 
Who loves me not since I am old." 

*'Fame is not all," the tall one sighed, 

"Her empty bubbles bring no rest, 
She brought to me an heiress bride, 

I cannot brook her vain behest." 

Then gently said the third: "My life 
Hath neither wealth nor fame supplied. 

But I am loved, and love my wife, 
Am happy, and am satisfied." 



THE GIRL AND WHAT SHE LIKES. 

A part of the girls, seven days of the week, 
Like a wee bit of powder and paint on their cheek. 
And like to make frizzes and curls of their hair. 
And wear pretty clothing to make them look fair. 

And some of them like the bicycle to ride. 
And have their best fellow to ride by their side. 
While some of them like to sit up late at night 
And get their hair mussed, till it is in bad plight. 

And others, still, like to be walkicjo: the street, 
And make many mashes on boys whom they meet. 
And have not a care whose affections they blight, 
Only that they can catch them, regardless of right. 



70 POEMS 

But the girl who is thoughtful, is honest and true. 
She seeks but one fellow; she thinks one will do; 
And he must be honest, be manly, and just. 
And true to his promises, true to his trust. 

She likes in the morning to rise with the sun 
And help her mamma till the work is all done. 
She then fixes up, after playing the cook, 
And practices music, or reads a good book. 

She likes to attend Sabbath school the year round, 
And when Sunday comes, at the church she is found. 
She likes to dress well, but is vain not at all, 
And she always is loved and respected by all. 

She likes to ask mamma's advice all about 
Who are fit companions to be with when out. 
With kind words and smiles always sv/eet'^ns her life. 
O, such is the girl who will make a good wife. 



THE FIRST WEDDING. 

We read in the Bible, as all should know, 

God made the first girl, she did not grow. 

Yes, made her; though some folks pronounce it a fib. 

Though plainly it says she was made from a rib. 

The rib was taken from Adam's left side 

While he was fast sleeping — sure he might have died 

He did not, for sure as the story I tell. 

When he did aw^aken his side was quite well. 

He opened his eyes and beheld with surprise 
A beautiful maiden, with bright, beaming eyes. 
And curls so bewitching her brow did relieve, 
A model of beauty; he called her name Eve. 



POEMS 71 

Now Cupid was ready for playing his part, 
For he had been with fair Eve from the start; 
With bow and with arrow concealed in a curl, 
He always lay ready her love darts to hurl. 

Now Eve upon Adam quite soon made a mash, 
Gave Cupid the hint, and he made a bold dash; 
He leveled his bow and he sent a keen dart 
That pierced Adam deeply, far down in the heart. 

Then Adam in tones that were almost divine 
Said: "Sweet, charming Eve, wilt thou ever be mine?" 
She gave her consent, but she thought it quite fair 
That half of the time she the breeches should wear. 

Then Adam a grape vine did quickly prepare 

Between two nice fig trees suspended in air; 

They joined their right hands, he was tall and she plump, 

And then they together the grape vine did jump. 

And then made a vow that they sealed with a kiss, 
Together to live in contentment and bliss; 
That each share the joys and the sorrows of life; 
That he be her husband and she be his wife. 

Then all things went lovely and well on the start; 
While honeymoon lasted they lived heart to heart. 
She loved Adam dearly, with him gladly stayed; 
While Adam thought her the best thing ever made. 

God planted a ^^erarden supplying their needs 

And gave them to care for, and keep down the weeds; 

A fine tree of knowledge, in bearing comlpete, 

But said of its fruit they were never to eat. 

Now that tree of knowledge was nice to behold, 
With beautiful fruit that held curses untold 
And God gave this order, to pass its fruit by 
For "the day that thou eatest thou surely shalt die." 



72 POEMS 

Now Adam attended that garden witli care, 
While Eve played around and fell into a snare; 
Quite ready for gossip or pleasure to take; 
And Satan came round in the shape of a snake, 

"My dear Madam Eve," he complacently said, 
"This is a fine garden from which you are fed. 
And that tree of knowledge, such beautiful fruit. 
You'll be wise as God if its fruit you will eat." 

Then Eve plucked the fruit and it tasted so fair 
She thought it quite time she the breeches should wear. 
She gave it to Adam and bade him partake. 
He yielded, and Eve was beguiled by the snake. 

That nice fruit of knowledge soon opened their eyes 
To their nude condition, and their great surprise. 
Not being content with their natural rig 
They made themBelves aprons of leaves of the fig. 

Then God came around that fine garden to view 
And see if his children were faithful and true; 
He then called for Adam, but they both had run 
And hid, while repenting of what they had done. 

Then God called for Adam, "O where hast thou been?" 
Then they both came creeping out, bowed down with sin. 
Said Adam, "The woman, that lovely helpmeet. 
She plucked the ripe fruit, she then bade me eat." 

Then God said to Adam, "Forever, I vow. 
Thou shalst eat thy bread by the sweat of thy brow; 
And Eve, thou shalt serve him the days of thy life. 
Thy husband shall rule thee whilst thou art his wife." 

Then Eve soon protested against this decree, 
And still keeps contending that she shall be free, 
And have her own servants, and live at her ease. 
And put on the breeches whenever she please. 



POEMS 73 

But Adam quite often puts in a protest. 
And claims that the breeches fits him much the best; 
And holds to the breeches and makes it quite plain 
That Eve must let go, or they'll rend them in twain. 

That old Bible story, I think, is unfair, 
Gives women more blame than good women should bean 
For men without women would die in despair. 
From this lovely world they would soon disappear. 

For woman, God bless her, is oftener true 
Than man, to good morals, and what she may do. 
And woman's influence, though fettered its course, 
With great moral power moves the world by its force. 



PSUEDO— CHRISTIAN. 

(To the man who prays for his neighbors and brothers, but 
votes to license the sale of intoxicants to drag them 
down to hell. 

'Tis sad to reflect on your moral condition. 

You pose as a moral example today. 
You surely are on the broad road to perdition, 

You need moral courage to vote as you pray. 

Your sordid desire for wealth and position. 

Is searing your conscience, your vote is for self, 

To save your own purse, without fear or contrition. 
You sacrifice neighbors, for lucre and pelf. 

By voting for license you give to another, 

A weapon for death forit kills by degrees. 
And say here's your victims, my neighbor and brother,. 

Your license is ready, go kill whom you please. 



74 POEMS 

The crime rests with you when you license another. 
And sell your poor soul your own coffers to fill. 

You thus press the cup to the lips of your brother, 
The cup that contains all the horrors of hell. 

Then rise above self and throw off party thraldom, 
Behold the vast legions you are helping to slay, 

While Satan is after their souls to install them. 
Then you will have courage to vote as you pray. 

Not he who says Lord, Lord, is always rewarded. 

And decked with a crown, that was made for the just. 

But he who the weak, and the needy, hath guarded, 

And brightened their lives, will be crowned with the 
blest. 

Then woe to the man. who, to save his own treasure, 
Will license another whose aims are not good, 

To deal out destruction and death, at his pleasure. 
And thus rob his victims of money and blood. 

Then do your whole duty to those who are falling. 
Too weak to resist it, O, tempt them no more, 

But strangle the serpent whose wiles are enthralling 
And slaying his victims by thousands galore. 

Close up the saloon, 'tis a nursery of evil, 

A school to make drunkards, where thousands have fell, 
A real kindergarten of crime for the devil, 

A hot bed preparing his victims for hell. 

O work, brothers, work, while your life lamp is burning. 
And use every effort, the weak ones to save. 

Remove every snare, that to evil is turning, 

And never cease working this side of the grave. 



POEMS 75 

(An answer to the assertion that Prohibition does not 
prohibit.) 

Does any law prohibit, every crime it would prevent, 
Does everyone obey the laws, to their fullest extent, 
If so this country soon would have a perfect government, 
And this land a heaven would exhibit, 

Laws to prohibit murder do not all murders prevent, 
We still have willful murders to an alarming extent. 
For some, regardless of all law, are upon murder bent, 
And laws do not fully crime prohibit. 

Laws to prohibit stealing do not stop it, thieves are bold, 
We still have stealing, right and left, as people did of old, 
It is regardless of the laws, increasing manifold, 
And yet would you all the laws repeal, sir. 

If this fair land of freedom had no laws to check the crimes. 
Its grief and woe would greater be than that of other 

climes. 
And we would have a hell on earth, instead of prosperous 

times. 
No power to protect the public weal, sir. 

Then would you license murderers and tell them all is well. 
If they will pay a license fee, the city's fund to swell. 
Because you cannot stop it would you make this world a 
hell. 
Get blood money for a license fee, sir. 

Because laws do not stop it would you license men to steal, 
Laws wise and just made in the past, such laws would you 

repeal. 
And license men to rob and steal, against the public weal. 
Because they will pay a license fee, sir. 

Wise laws made to prohibit and suppress the liquor trade. 
Have proven as effectual as other Jaws that's made, 
If not suppressed entirely, 'tis crippled and delayed, 
Which lessens the crimes within the city. 



76 POEMS 

The model town or city is not cursed with a saloon. 
Built up by people who regard sobriety a boon, 
Such towns are less afflicted with the bawdy and buffoon, 
Have less pauper families to pity. 

You'd better license stealing than saloons with liquor rife, 
Thieves only take your property, saloons will take your life, 
Disgrace your orphan children and impoverish your wife, 
And you fill a drunkard's grave forever. 

For when you license a saloon you license murder too. 
For men who drink at the saloon will sooner crime pursue. 
It lowers their moral powers, it their honor will undo. 
And stiffle their every good endeavor. 

Not one redeeming feature of saloons have you to tell. 
For they defy all righteous laws, the Sabbath day as 

well, 
They blight the very atmosphere, and drag men down to 
hell, 
And that's why the people all should shun them. 

The history of the saloon is strewn with blood and tears. 
With crime, rapine, and misery,for lo, these many years. 
They fill the jails and prisons, with their liquor and their 
beers. 
And surely degrade the men who run them. 



WOMEN'S WRONGS. 

Our social sytem is to women unjust, 
It prescribes for her, and obey she must. 
But sooner or later will come the day, 
When women with men will have fair play. 



POEMS 77 

Her fond aspirations she must conceal, 
Her heart's desire she dare not reveal, 
She reads by the light of her soul on fire, 
Her secrets of love and her heart's desire. 

She drinks bitter cups of sorrow in tears, 
And holds to her secret through lonely years. 
And if she dare plainly express the same, 
The cold cruel world will cry ''Shame, O, shame." 

Away with such cruelty, it is unfair, 
She has the same right as have men to declare, 
The right to express by her actions and voice, 
And choose from the world the man of her choice. 

For women have shown that the feminine class. 
Are equals to men and oft times men surpass, 
In morals and intellect, also in tact. 
In diplomat circles, when called on to act. 

And man is ungenerous, also unjust. 
To urge a fair lady in his love to trust. 
If she has proclaimed by a hint or a sign, 
That his overtures she would rather decline. 

The mothers most often the children impress. 
To form future habits, to curse or to bless, 
Then educate women, in all that is good. 
Preparing their minds for a pure motherhood. 

The thoughts of the mother most surely will be 
Impresed on her children, while yet round her knee. 
Then educate women in statecraft secure. 
If you wish our national politics pure. 

When women by law have the honor to vote. 
They will by their power good morals promote, 
And evils that now on our statutes appear, 
Will soon be supplanted by laws that are pure. 



78 POEMS 

Since women are equal to men in this age, 
Her voice should be heard on political stage, 
Our national welfare her voice will promote, 
A wave of morality bring by her vote. 

Then let us unite for the good of mankind, 
The vote of our sisters with ours combined 
'T would many an evil from statute erase. 
Add blessings in laws for the whole human race, 

O, hasten the day, when our laws will declare. 
That women and men equal rights shall share. 
That each in all things shall the other promote, 
And either shall go to the polls and vote. 



THE SWEET KANKAKEE. 

The author owned a farm near the Kankakee river and was 
so charmed with the beautiful valley and its prospects and 
possibilities, that the follwing lines were the sequence. 

'Tis sweet to reflect on the scenes of my childhood, 
As often fond memory brings them to view, 

The b'eautiful prairies, the grove with its wildwood, 
The creek in the valley, where wild flowers grew, 

The spring and the lawn, where I with my brothers 
So many times played with a rapturous glee. 

The grove where I many times met with another. 
Whose radiant smile still brings pleasure to me. 

Now other scenes greet me, quite lovely and charming. 
With beautiful groves wrapt in verdure so green, 

A valley extensive, a haven for farming, 
A beautiful river, meandering is seen. 



POEMS 79 

And on the green banks of that beautiful river, 

A beautiful city stands, charming to see, 
An island, the work of the bountiful giver. 

That river was christened the sweet Kankakee. 

That valley, the once paradise of the hunter, 

With tent, dog, and gun he would sally with glee. 

Is being transferred quite according to Gunter, 

They're draining its lands, to the sweet Kankakee. 

That beautiful river, with rock for its pillow, 

Hath green mossy banks, that are fair to behold. 

And bright sparkling water, with scarcely a billow. 
So placid that fishes do sparkle like gold^ 

And fishes and fishermen love that sweet river, 

A fisherman's haven 'tis destined to be, 
And fish of fine quality you will discover, 

If ever you fish in the sweet Kankakee. 

That beautiful island hath charms beyond measure, 
By nature bestowed with a bountiful hand, 

No place can compare as an Eden of pleasure, 
With that lovely park, 'tis the best in the land. 

Momence on both banks of the stream is reclining, 

The island and river reposing between. 
With beautiful buildings and streets all combining. 

Presents the beholder a beautiful scene. 

O, beautiful valley thy charms beyond measure 

Have fallen a mantle, that rests upon me, 
O, beautiful river, 'tis surely a pleasure. 

To dwell on the banks of the sweet Kankakee. 



80 POEMS 

WE ALL WEAR CLOAKS. 

The author calls attention to the fact that the following 
lines do not apply in all cases, but it is a lamentable fact 
that there is more truth than poetry in them. There 
is another song extant that run's in the same lines, but 
with different words, but uses the same chorus. 

My friends come and list while I sing you a song. 
And tell you how people of late get along; 
'Tis true I declare without any joke, 
The world of mankind, one and all, wear a cloak. 

Chorus : 

And we all wear cloakB, we all wear cloaks, 
To be in the fashion, we all wear cloaks. 

In the garden of Eden old Satan you see. 
Told Eve to partake of the fruit of the tree, 
He told her to eat and be wiser tomorrow, 
Then off went his cloak, and he left her in sorrow. 

Chorus: 

O, there is the Preacher, your name he'll enroll. 
He tells you he'll preach for the good of your soul. 
To fill up his coffers if you should decline, 
Then off goes his cloak, and he soon will resign. 

Chorus: 

O, there is the lawyer, and what careth he. 

To plead for his client, except for a fee. 

He'll talk, and he'll blarney, he'll gas, and he'll croak. 

When he's got all your money, then off goes his cloak. 

Chorus: 

You call in the doctor, to cure your disease. 
He tells you that thing he can do with great ease, 
But if he should learn that you're poor by the bye, 
Then off goes his cloak, and he leaves you to die. 

Chorus: 



POEMS 81 

O, there is the merchant, both sly and discreet. 
Extending his hand, like a friend you he'll greet, 
While driving a bargain cracks many a joke. 
But gets all your money and still wears his cloak. 

Chorus: 

The ladies of late they will fix up their hair. 
And paint up their faces, to make them look fair, 
And flatter with tongues that are loose at each end, 
But its only a cloak to ensnare the young men. 

Chorus: 

The young men say they will not single remain, 
When trying young ladies affection to gain. 
They woo, and caress and declare it no sin. 
But it's often a cloak to wrap young ladies in. 

Chorus: 

The bland office seeker says *How do you do. 

My dear sir, I really am glad to see you," 

But if he's elected 'tis not as before. 

Then off goes his cloak and he knows you no more. 

Chorus: 

While farmers are often both honest and true. 
Too honest to ever take more than their due, 
When selling their products, I frankly must state, 
That some wear a cloak, while they cheat you in weight. 

Chorus: 

Now friends I will say, without any joke, 
Too many of late wear a very long cloak. 
And also I'll say, before closing my song, 
I wear a cloak myself, but it's not quite so long. 

Chorus: 



82 POEMS 

FOR THE INDIAN GROVE REVIEW. 

(Lines by the author for the Indian Grove Lyceum paper, 
while editor for the same.) 

Let all who wish our paper well, 

Contribute largely to it. 
Enabling it the news to tell, 

'T will then be sure to do it. 



Let each one wield the mighty pen, 
The current news to give us, 

Write very often if you can, 
'T will very much relieve us. 



Deal kindly toward all alike, 

Lest some one should resent it. 

And you a tender chord should strike. 
And then oft times repent it. 



When writing, proper subjects choose. 
And write your items quickly, 

That we may publish all the news, 
Let items come in thickly. 



Let no one swerve from duty's path. 
For all should pull together, 

Let nothing kindle up your wrath, 
Treat each one like a brother. 



Then peace and happiness will reign. 

And all will profit by it. 
Then friends come join, you've much to gain, 

Write down your names and try it. 



POEMS 83 

THE TIPPECANOE. 

A beautiful river of Indiana. 

In bright golden autumn, at dawn of the morning. 
All nature was clothed in a mantle of dew, 

I hied me away to the country adorning 
That beautiful river, — the Tippecanoe. 

We heard it in song, and we read it in story. 
How sparkling that river, and lovely to view, 

I found her still clothed in the mantle of glory. 
That long ago fell on the Tippecanoe. 

Her rich mossy banks are too high for o'erflowing, 
Her farms and her forests are fair to behold. 

Her clear sparkling water so gently is flowing. 
That fishes and pebbles do sparkle like gold. 

Her towns and her cities all seem to be moving, 
And speeding along in prosperity's track, 

But foremost of all in the race of improving, 
Is the beautiful city, the fair Winamac. 

That city has dwellings, like mansions elysian, 
Macadimlzed streets, that are fair to behold, 

Her beautiful court house, a charm to the vision, 
A spring that has health giving treasures untold. 

She sits on the bank of the beautiful river. 

No city more comely, or fairer to view. 
Her seat was designed by the bountiful giver, 

And now she is queen of the Tippecanoe. 

I've traveled the west to the coast, o'er the mountain, 
And sweet sunny South, I have traveled there, too. 

I've seen sparkling rivers that gushed from a fountain. 
But none had the charms of the Tippecanoe. 



84 POEMS 

Some go to the West, simply seeking for treasure, 
While many go south, failing health to renew. 

But I, for the blessings of profit and pleasure. 
Would dwell on the banks of the Tippecanoe. 



MISSOURI. 

Sung to the tune of ** Marching- Through Georgia.'* 

The great State of Missouri is lovely to behold. 

Her hills and fertile valleys yield a vast amount of gold. 

Her mines and fertile prairies yielding countless wealth 

untold ; 
And that's why I'm going to Missouri. 

Chorus: 

Hurrah! Hurrah! Missouri's on the boom, 
Hurrah! Hurrah! high up she's bound to loom. 
For thousands, now, are going there, to settle while there's 
room ; 
And that's what's the matter with Missouri. 
The cruel war swept over her — devastated her farms, 
Retarded her development — bedimmed her many charms, 
And now she ^stands, inviting us to come, with open arms, 
And settle in the good old State Missouri. 

Chorus. 

Her people are quite chivalrous, and courteous, and plain, 

Hospitable and sociable, to all in her domain. 

And when you view her landscape o'er you will go back 

again. 
And buy you a home in Old Missouri. 

Chorus. 



POEMS 85 

Her rainfall for the past ten years has averaged thirty-eight. 
While Illinois was thirty-five, which is a lower rate, 
And Iowa was thirty, which is less than either State; 
And that's why I'm going to Missouri. 

Chorus. 

Her mountains with their many charms are now a boun- 
teous field, 
With climate mild salubrious, for health a mighty shield. 
Their live stock, fruit and minerals make an enormous 

yield. 
Inviting her thousands to Missouri. 

Chorus. 

Great fields of corn, and grass, and fruit, on her fair bosom 

rest, 
Much coal ond other minerals, concealed within her breast. 
For products taken as a whole, Missouri is the best; 
And that's why I'm going to Missouri. 

Chorus. 

She stands the peer of many states, in unencumbered farms, 

Of Iowa and Illinois and Kansas with her storms, 

In live stock, grain, and grass, and fruit, she has so many 

charms. 
That thousands are buying in Missouri. 

Chorus. 

At the World's Fair, Chicago, she stood bravely at the head. 
In numbers, and in quality, there all the states she led. 
More prizes won than any state, with her fine catchy speed, 
And caught many settlers for Missouri. 

Chorus. 

Her prizes won at Omaha, were just and truly great. 
On agriculture, and live stock, were more than any state. 
For her display at St. Louis, the anxious world now wait. 
Then, all want to visit Old Missouri. 

Chorus. 



86 POEMS 

Dame Nature greatly favored her, and countless blessings 

sent. 
Diversified her products, to a wonderful extent, 
So she can live, within herself, and prosper in content. 
And be independent Old Missouri. 

Chorus. 

The mighty Mississippi grently sweeps h'^r eastern shore, 
The majestic Missouri through her fertile valleys pour, 
No state within the middle west, of cheap frieght rates so 

sure. 
As now is the good Old State Missouri. 

Chorus. 

She has some famous cities that for beauty do excel, 
As marts of trade are at the front, as her statistics tell, 
For business and pleasure, splendid homes in which to 

dwell, 
Are those lovely cities of Missouri. 

Chorus. 

Her lands will all appreciate, and prices soon will boom. 
And level up with sister states who long have had a boom. 
And reach the hundred dollar mark, then all will wish for 

room, 
To settle in the good old state Missouri. 

Chorus. 

I've traveled over many states, their farming lands to test, 
And at current prices think Missouri land the best. 
If you want wealth and pleasure, and a social place to rest. 
Then settle in the good old state Missouri. 

Chorus. 



POEMS a? 

ARKANSAS. 

(Sung to the tune: "Tramp, Tramp, the Boys are 
Marching.") 

There's a grand southwestern state, that is looming up of 

late, 
And the Mississippi waters kiss her shore; 
Her resources now are great, more than many other states, 
And her immigrants are coming more and more. 

. Chorus: 

Tramp, tramp, thousands now are marching. 

There to settle while there's room; 

On her fertile prairies wide, they can settle side by side, 

And be happy in their new Arkansas home. 

There is many reasons why, you should go at once and buy, 
Now there's splendid opportunity for you. 
For prosperity's her cry, for her flag her sons would die. 
And her people brave and generous and true. 

Chorus : 

Then her climate is so nice, that she has but little ice, 
And for agriculture none can her defy; 
Fertile prairies that are nice, very, very low in price, 
That will pay enormous prfits by and by, 

Crops are so diversified, she can cultivate with pride. 
Many fruits, and many kinds of grass for hay, 
All cereals growing wide, corn and cotton side by side, 
She can raise most any crop and make it pay. 

As a live stock growing state, her Angora goats of late. 
Cattle, horses, mules and hogs, good profits pay; 
Ten months grazing is the rate, little feeding in the state. 
And a good home market for them any day. 



88 POEMS 

And her timber is so fine, walnut, hickory oak, and pine, 
Many other kinds upon her vales and hills. 
If to lumber you incline, there the chance is superfine, 
And a splendid source of revenue for mills. 

And her present milling force, in its infancy of course, 
But a portion of her timber will consume; 
Leaving forests still in course, for a future milling force, 
And for future milling interests plenty room. 

She has coal a boundles field, in her bosom yet concealed, 
Cannel, Anthracite, Bitiuminous as well. 
Other ores a counties yield, she's a glorious mining field, 
That will soon her wealth and population swell. 

In her beautiful confines, she has ores of many kinds, 
Iron, zinc and lead, and carbonates as well. 
And her splendid railroad lines, will develop many mines; 
Her own oil and gas the engines will propel. 

And her hills and mountains fair with their mild and balmy 

air. 
Have commercial orchards, many that are fine. 
Her fine fruits and berries rare, extra prices always bear, 
And she soon will lead all states in grapes and wine. 

She has building stone that's great, splendid marble in the 

state. 
For a mansion when a fortune you have made. 
Which is possible of late if you settle in t he state. 
And you understand the rudiments of trade. 

She has much wild game that's nice, you can get at your 

own price. 
If you are an old expert with trap and gun; 
And for fishing she'll suffice, she's a hunter's paradise. 
Where the profits will be large also the fun. 



POEMS 8^ 

And her famous health resorts are a most important part, 
And their healthful waters better far than gold, 
Will give vigor to your heart, and good health to you impart^ 
And prevent you prematurely growing old. 

O, Arkansas thou art fine, thy resources all combine, 
And predict for thee a glorious time to come; 
For homeseekers now incline, to be crowding into line. 
And are marching to Arkansas for a home. 



RIVERDALE. 



I stopped in dear old Springfield one pleasant, balmy day. 
And rode with S. E. Prather, to his farm, six miles away. 
The fine Short Horns I there beheld, will with my memory 

stay ; 
They were the best that I have seen for many, many a day. 

'Twas in the land of plenty, where the Indian in his pride; 
With bow and gun the forest roved, and in canoe did ride; 
Where Lincoln built his flat-boat, and the rolling waves 

defied', 
'Tis now the white man's paradise, and bounteous crops 

provide. 

'Twas in that land of plenty, by the lovely river side. 

Young Prather, in the glow of youth, came with his bloom- 
ing bride. 

And settled on a charming hill, above the fertile vale; 

With courage built his splendid farm, now known as River- 
dale. 



90 POEMS 

The view from near the mansion is enchanting to the eye; 
A lovely vale, and then beyond, a forest mounting high, 
Is kissed by crystal waters of that clear and sparkling 

stream ; 
A landscape so alluring, that it haunts me like a dream. 

That lovely vale was all bedecked with bounteous crops of 

corn; 
The yield immense, with foliage the landscape to adorn. 
The scene would please a critic, and would cheer the most 

forlorn ; 
I've met no scene more lovely, since the day that I was 

born. 

I turned and viewed the highlands, and beheld a lovely 

scene 
Of verdant pastures, gently rolling, clothed in lovely green. 
Here roved the famous Short Horns, grand and noble, calm, 

serene; 
The choice of Scotland's breeding herds, no better to be 

seen. 

King of the herd at Riverdale, for color, blood and size, 
And quality, is grand, superb, a beauty, a surprise! 
The off-jpring rank among the best, for they are superfine, 
And soon will be to Riverdale, a gold and silver mine. 

Could I call back the fleeting years of pleasure, joy and 

strife. 
And purchase lovely Riverdale, I'd settle there for life, 
In that fair land of plenty, and at Riverdale would dwell. 
And breed those famous Short Horns, whose worth we 

know so well. 

Oh, thou blest land of plenty, thou hast power to enchant; 

Thy landscape so alluring, my memory they haunt. 

Thy verdant hills and valleys, and thy sparkling crystal 

stream, 
Hath charmed my waking vision, and they haunt me when 

I dream. 



POEMS 91 

THE WIRELESS PIANO. 

Sung to the tune of **Marching Through Georgia.*' 

Music lovers all rejoice, the youth, also the sage, 
Now we have an instrument, the wonder of the age. 
Wireless pianos will be always on the stage. 
Grand is the wireless piano. 

Chorus: 

Hurrah! Hurrah! herald the great success, 
Hurrah! Hurrah! proclaim it through the press. 
I. P. Gilmore, the inventor, came the world to bless, 

With his wireless piano. 
Wireless pianos are to man a precious boon, 
Charming with a lovely voice, will always stay in tune. 
When you hear the music you will buy one very soon. 

All want a wireless piano. 

Chorus : 

Money saved for tuning is an item all will heed. 
Always will be ready when good music you will need. 
Costing little money, an important fact, indeed. 
All want a wireless piano. 

Chorus : ^' 

Old wire pianos are so often out of tune. 
Cost so much for tuning, you get tired of it soon. 
Wireless pianos ready morning, night and noon. 
All want a wireless piano. 

Chorus: 

Ready and in perfect tune, with golden tones so neat. 
Lovely voice, enchantingly melifluous and sweet. 
Charms the rythm of the soul with melody complete. 
Such is the wireless piano. 

Chorus : 

(The wireless piano was invented by Ira P. Gilmore. Por 
any information in regard to the same address him at 
Bloomington, 111.) 



92 POEMS 

TO MISS SARAH C. BIRDSELL, MY FUTURE WIFE. 

There is an ideal of my heart, 

Whose lovely face methinks I see, 
Is she content that we're apart, 

Or does she often think of me. 

Love seemed her banner to unfurl. 

When first my ideal I did see. 
She seemed v^ith lightning's force to hurl, 

Young Cupid's darts direct at me. 

Had I the pinions of a dove, 

I'd gladly to her bower soar, 
And softly whisper to my love, 

When she did least expect me there. 

I'd go at midnight's silent hour. 

When she was wrapped in Sleep's embrace, 

By aid of moonlight in her bower, 
I'd gaze upon her lovely face. 

And there I'd whisper words of love. 

Of love for her, that is divine, 
Inspired by angels from above, 

I'd ask my loved one to be mine. 

Since she has pierced me with the dart. 

In her kind words I will confide. 
If Cupid fairly plays his part. 

Old Time will give to me a bride. 

The above lines were written to Miss Birdsell his future 
wife in 1855, when the author was at school at the 
Wesleyan University, Bloomington, 111. 



POEMS 93 

TO MY WIFE, WHEN ABSENT FROM HOME. 

Whene'er thou art in other lands, 

And other friends surround thee, 
When thou art grasping other hands, 

And other ties do bind thee. 

When other thoughts engage thy mind. 

And other friends caress thee, 
O, may thy spirit truly find, 

My heart is there to bless thee. 

Then would'st thou ever think of me, 

Thy true and constant lover, 
O, may sweet thoughts encompass thee. 

And cause thee to uncover, 

A love for me within thy heart, 

Sweet incense e'er disclosing. 
That never, never will depart, 

Eternaly reposing. 

May happines remain with thee, 

Thy heart receive a blessing. 
Thy confidence repose in me, 

'T will keep our hearts caressing. 

For loved one, thou will'st ever find. 

The love I have to give thee. 
Is true and constant, ever kind, 

And always will be with thee. 



94 POEMS 

MY DEAR LITTLE FAMILY. 

I'll ne'er forget the day we met 't was in the mild Sep- 
tember, 

Her hair was dark, although not black as I quite well re- 
member. 

She was so sweet, so blithe and gay, she filled my heart's 
desire, 

I fell a victim to her charms, the kind that I admire. 

She charmed my life till sixty-four, she looked to be but 

thirty. 
She weighed about a hundred pounds, and I thought her 

a beauty. 
Her face and features smooth and fine, her eyes quite dark 

and jetty. 
Her tongue was fluently inclined, in conversation witty. 

Her body exquisitely formed and she was quite athletic. 

The thought that she too must grow old to me it was 
pathetic. 

Her shoe was less than number two, her glove the size 
to match it. 

Whate'er she undertook to do , like lightning she dis- 
patched it. 

A natural artist from her birth, for she with no designing. 
Could paint a picture perfectly, with all its parts combining. 
To form a perfect masterpiece, with light and shade so 

blended. 
That nature was exemplified, her work is really splendid. 

She was but thirteen when we met and Cupid would not 

tarry, 
For she was handsome, lovely, bright, at fifteen we did 

marry. 
Well has she done her part to keep the ship of finance 

floating. 
And by her cheerful handy work, every success promoting. 



POEMS 95 

But oh, the bitter change that came, death robbed me of 

my treasure, 
The days now seem like lonely years, my grief beyond all 

measure. 
My loved ones all have passed away and crossed the stormy 

river. 
To dwell in spheres of love and light, with joy and peace 

forever. 

And oh, the joys that once were mine, dear wife and 

children with me. 
When trials came their love and care soon blest me and 

relieved me. 
Our children were of daughters two, our sons were three 

in number. 
They all were handsome, bright and fair, as well we all 

remember. 

With talent fine, and voices sweet, on organ or piano, 

They played superbly and complete and Birdsell sang 
soprano. 

While Cora played the instrument and sang the air com- 
pletely, 

Their Pa sang bass, and dear Estella sang the Alto sweetly. 

When Papa played the violin, one of the three attended. 
And played a second part with him with chords that 

sweetly blended. 
The sweet guitar with tones so neat, they all played when 

at leisure, 
Our lives were pleasant then and sweet and filled with 

joy and pleasure. 

Could I roll back the wheels of time with those sweet days 
of pleasure, 

My ecstacy would be sublime, my joy beyond all measure. 

But greater will my pleasure be, when I the spheres as- 
cending. 

Shall with my loved ones ever be, midst pleasures never 
ending. 



96 POEMS 

Our little Ray and Georgie dear, from them'twas sad to 

sever, 
While young and tender they were called to dwell with 

Christ forever, 
And oh, the joy it will be sweet when we pass o'er to meet 

them, 
Our happiness will be complete when in the spheres we 

greet them. 

(The above family history was written Aug. 25, 1906, four 
days after the death of my dear wife.) 



THE LOVED ONES AT HOME. 

'*The L/Oved Ones At Home" was written in the depot at 
Quincy, Illinois. While sick and lonely the author was 
waiting for the train to bear him to the loved ones at 
home. 

There's nothing enshrined with such loving devotion, 
And cherished with joy in the heart as we roam, 

That thrills every heart with such tender emotion, 
As those near and dear ones, the loved ones at home. 

The exile from home, forced from loved ones to sever, 
His heart pierced with sorrow, midst strangers to roam. 

Would often give life ,and its prospects forever, 
For one happy day with the loved ones at home. 

Chorus : 

O, home, blessed home, where my loved ones have blessed 
me. 
And soothed every sorrow, that fell to my lot. 
My heart thrilled with joy when they sweetly carressed 
me. 
Where love dwells is heaven, though home is a cot. 



POEMS 97 

When far, far from home, though in May or December, 
No kind friends to greet us and none to deplore, 

There's nothing on earth gives such joy to remember, 
As loved ones at home on our dear native shore, 

When stern duty calls us on land or on ocean. 
And fate a long absence decrees as our doom. 

Fond love swells the bosom with tender emotion. 
The heart will remain with the loved ones at home. 

Chorus: 

Those sweet, tender home ties can never be shaken. 
Though wander we far to a strange distant strand. 

In dreams we revisit the home to awaken 

And sigh for our loved ones and dear native land. 

Though decked with a crown, in a mansion of splendor. 
Away from our dear ones, to them cannnt come, 

Bereft of their kindness, so loving and tender, 

We pine for the smiles of the loved ones at home. 

Chorus : 

When life's work is done, Oh, may loved ones attend me. 
And angels of mercy repair to my room. 

And spirits of loved ones be there to commend me, 
O, there let me pass to the bright spirit home. 

Let patriots honor their hero and flourish 

With splendor a monument grand o'er his tomb. 

Let mine rest neath evergreen, long be it cherished, 
Bedewed with the tears of the loved ones at home. 

(The author has composed music for the above lines and 
it is printed in sheet form for piano, a copy of which 
can be obtained of the author, J. F. Myers, for fifty cents 
by addressing him at 924 West Front street, Blooming- 
ton, 111.) 



98 POEMS 

SINCE SHE WENT HOME. 

Since she went home a sable pall hangs o'er the sun's 

bright wave, 
The summer winds are singing mournful requiems o'er 

her grave, 
The genial raj^s of summer's sun obscured and chill and 

drear. 
And every golden summer day seems like a lonely year. 

Since she went home the robin's note has touched a minor 

strain, 
The old glad songs of happy days now breathe a sad refrain. 
And cheering words of loving friends now fail my heart 

to cheer, 
And laughter sobs with hidden pain, so bitter to my ear. 

Since she went home her empty rooms are lonely, drear 

and still, 
Are now as quiet as the grave that her dear body fills. 
Untouched the pillow now remains, that once her dear head 

pressed. 
It seems my lonely heart will break, has nowhere for its 

rest. 

Since she went home the long, lone days have crept away 

like years, 
The sleepless nights bring little rest, but many lonely tears. 
The sunlight has been dim with doubts, its rays have 

failed to cheer, 
The summer's landscape now appears like meadows brown 

and sear. 

Since she went home, willst thou O, God, my wayward foot- 
steps guide. 

That I may follow duty's path and safely stem the tide. 

And cross bold Jordan's stormy waves and o'er them safe- 
ly ride, 

To meet my loved ones, gone before and there with them 
abide. 



POEMS 99 

When I get home, within that land, the haven of the blest. 
Have met my loved ones over there, them sweetly have 

caressed, 
My joy and bliss will be sublime, I with them will abide. 
My heart will then have found its rest and will be satisfied. 

(Written August 31, ten days after she went home) 



ALONE. 



(Written one week after the decease of my dear little wife^ 
who passed to spirit life, Aug. 21st, 1906, my children 
having all passed before.) 

Alone, alone, left all alone, while life's dim light hold out 

to burn. 
Those dear and loved ones of my own, can never in the 

flesh return. 
My heart is filled with dark despair, O, could I to some 

covert flee. 
Where loving friends and balmy air would soothe my heart 

and comfort me. 

Alone, alone, yes all alone, to plod in sorrow to the grave, 
O, was such sorrow every known while sailing on life's 

stormy wave, 
O, dark despair, could I but see one star of hope beyond 

thy gloom, 
'T would be a joyful sight to me, it soon this darkness 

would- illume. 

He called my loved ones, one by one, to dwell within the 

spirit spheres. 
While I must travel here alone with none to cheer my 

lonely years, 



100 POEMS 

'T was pleasure sweet and joy supreme encompassed me 

when they were here, 
But now upon life's turbid stream, my life is lonely sad and 

drear. 

And yet, though stricken sore in mind, there's yet a noble 

work to do, 
Some helpless ones are left behind, that I must live for 

and be true, 
O, God, encompass me with peace and give me strength 

upon the way, 
O, let thy blessings now increase and lead me kindly day 
by day. 

Until my work is finished here, that thou has made my 

daily care. 
Be with me through death's valley drear, to meet with 

loved ones over there. 
While sailing on the wings of time O, waft me to that 

shining shore. 
My ecstacy will be sublime, from loved ones there I'll part 

no more. 

But dwell in peace forevermore where love and bliss will 

reign supreme. 
I'll join those who passed on before and endless love will 

be our theme. 
And there we'll dwell in endless bliss, in those bright 

pheres thy love hast given. 
Where we our loved ones will caress and dwell in love and 

peace and heaven. 



POEMS 101 

MY DEAR MOTHER. 

(Written after the death of the authors mother.) 
(In A. D. 1857.) 

The evening shadows are falling, 

'Tis winter the whole of the year,' 
The soughing winds plaintively calling, 

To memory sweet mother dear. 

The old songs no more teem with gladness. 

Are laden with sorrow and pain, 
The birds seem to warble with sadness, 

I sigh to meet mother again. 

Her room once so pleasant and cheerful, 

Now still, that her presence once blessed, 
Beholding her pillow I'm tearful. 

The pillow her dear head once pressed. 

Since she from our home hath departed, 

The days seem like sorrowful years, 
I linger at home broken-hearted. 

The sunlight is dim through my tears. 

O, mother I gladly will meet thee, 

Where sorrowing souls will find rest. 
And there I will joyfully greet thee. 

Forever to dwell with the blest. 

O, God willst thou ever be with me. 

My faltering footsteps to guide, 
Thy blessing and strength ever give me. 

To safely cross bold Jordan's tide. 



102 POEMS 

IN MEMORY OF MRS. CORA B. SPENCE. 

(Eldest daughter of the author, who died at the age of 32, 
leaving a husband and three little boys, written by her 
father, J. F. Myers, the next day after her interrment.) 

Our loved one has gone, whom so fondly we cherished, 
The jewel most prized, in our casket of love, 

Her gentle form bloomed, like the roses, then perished, 
Her spirit awaits us, in mansions above. 



The flower was plucked, when at richest full blooming. 
While shedding rich fragrance on all whom it fell, 

O, ne'er was a flower more sweet and perfuming. 
And oft did it charm with a sweet magic spell. 



O, Cora, from thee, O, how sad 'tis to sever. 

And lay thy sweet form in the cold silent tomb. 

While yet we well know, that beyond that dark river. 
Thy beautiful form will more lovingly bloom. 



Thy love like a vine, with its tendrils enfolding. 

Encircled thy friends, in one dear family tree, 
Its fruit laden branches, so nobly upholding. 
Will still shed sweet fragrance and e'er with us be. 



O oft have we gazed on thy face ever beaming. 

With love, and beheld in thy bright beaming eye, 

An angel of light in its radiant gleaming, 
An angel of mercy and love from on high. 



Dear one may the charm of thy sweet Christian graces. 
E'er prove a safe guide to our oft erring feet. 

And point us to Christ, and the bright loving faces. 
Of friends gone before us their Savior to meet. 



POEMS 103 



IN MEMORY OF MISS ESTELLE MYERS, 

(Youngest daughter of the author, who passed to spirit 
life at the age of seventeen years.) 

Estelle, thou loved one, though lost to our vision, 
Thy beautiful form in our memory is bright. 

By faith we behold thee, in mansions elysian, 
With glorified spirits, in mansions of light. 



We ne'er can forget thy sweet innocent childhood, 
When thou and dear Cora, didst play by the stream, 

And gather sweet flowers that grew by the wildwood. 
And now both are gone, O it seems like a dream. 



Thy cheeks had the blush of the sweet blooming roses, 
And sparkled thine eye, like the bright morning dew. 

Thy lips had the tint of the fresh buding posies, 
Thy countenace beamed with a love that was true 



We oft think of thee and dear Cora when singing, 
It seems thy loved voices we hear from afar. 

Thy soft trilling notes in our memory ringing, 
And blending so sweetly with chords of guitar. 



O dear, one, O loved one, O how we have missed thee. 
Thy sweet soothing voice and thy bright smiling face. 

And fully vve trust that the Savior hath blessed thee, 
And taken thee home, through his rich loving grace. 



O StelJa, our darling, we gladly would meet thee. 
In dreams oft we visit that bright shining shore. 

And when we are called, we will joyfully greet thee, 
To dwell with our loved ones and Christ evermore. 



104 POEMS 

LINES FROM MRS. CORA B. SPENCE, 

(In spirit life, oldest daughter of the author. Through the 
trance medium, Mrs. Bonney.) 

O, I am so happy, dear ones, tonight. 
In bringing to you this message of light, 
Although dear friends you thought me dead, 
Yet I am full of life instead. 



My darling boys, I will watch over them. 
And be to them all that a mother can. 
As in their physical forms they grow. 
Try to teach them these truths to know. 



And by and by, 'Twill not be long. 

Till we meet here and join in the song, 

Be happy in our spirit home, 

Rejoice when that glad time shall come. 

CORA B. SPENCE. 

(The fact of receiving messages from the sprits of the 
two daughters, Cora and Estella, in ryhme, was a reve- 
lation to their friends on earth, as they had never prac- 
tised that style of writing in earth life, it evidently 
proves that they had inherited the talent, and that we 
take with us to the spirit world our natural possibilities 
and talents and can develop them even in spirit life, 
as Mrs. Bonney, the medium, was a stranger to us and 
knew nothing of our family; Cora left three little boys 
which she lovingly mentions in her message.) 

J. F. M. 



POEMS 105 

LINES RECEIVED FROM ESTELLA E. MYERS. 

(Who was in spirit life through the trance medium Mrs. 
Bonney.) 

We come, dear friends, from spirit shore, 
To mingle with you as of yore, 
I have waited long for this glad night, 
My soul is full of love and light. 

And Cora comes here with me too, 
And brings you love, so rich and true, 
She brings her love to all dear ones. 
And wishes you to know she comes. 

We are both engaged in beautiful work. 
We meet poor souls who pass from earth. 
Weary and tired and ignorant too. 
We meet and teach them what is true. 

Young girls are our especial care. 
Many ne'er heard the voice of prayer. 
Neglected, sick, weary of life. 
Many pass from earth through strife. 

We have music, flowers, a lovely abode, 
Where we take these weary ones on toward GrOd, 
We gather them in with words of love, 
Tis sweet to see how they improve. 

Dear friends, I now bid you adieu, 

But I shall often visit you. 

Together sit, which is the door, 

Through which we come, from the other shore. 

Though some in spirit, some on earth, 
Together we'll gain the second birth. 
We'll over you watch, from the other shore. 
Till we are a family united once more. 

ESTELLA E. MYERS. 



106 POEMS 

A MEMORIAL TO BIRDSELL F. MYERS. 

(Who passed to spirit life April 11, 1902, aged 43 years, 
being killed suddenly on the Illinois Central Railroad. 
Oldest son of the author. 

My darling son, thou first born unto me, 

Thou art unto my memory ever dear, 
Though five and forty years have passed away. 

Since thy dear form was placed within my care. 

And oft when memories pages viewing o'er, 

I see thy little form upon my knee, 
O, how our hearts thy cruel fate deplore, 

And wish thou hadst been left to comfort me. 

How often I live o'er tliy childhood days, 

When safe at home, I weary worn would land, 

My darling Birt with pleasant v/inning ways. 
Was first to greet and take me by the hand. 

When in thy childhood thou wast so alert, 

Also to labor thou didst kindly yield, 
In games of childhood thou wast an expert; 

In manhood none could lead thee in the field. 

When in the field of letters thou didst soar. 
It was a good one who could thee surpass, 

AVhen thou didst view thy lesson freely o'er. 
Thou stood among the foremost in thy class. 

Thy soul was full of music, sweet sublime. 

Thy tones upon piano, rich and sweet. 
With lovely chords so perfect was the time; 

With violin, 'tw^as melody complete. 

WTien young my mind and heart was set on thee. 

The idol of my dreams, for future years, 
But cruel fate decreed it not to be. 

And thy untimely death left us in tears. 



POEMS 107 

Thy generous heart was full of love and fire, 
Thy love for friends was ever true and strong, 

To err was not thy honest heart's desire, 
But love to join in music and in song. 

Dame Nature favored thee with form complete. 
With wit, and humor, thou wast well supplied, 

That won the hearts of those whom thou didst meet, 
And many friends deplore thee far and wide. 

Since thou hast crossed the valley and art free, 

Thy spirit friends so loving and benign. 
Will lovingly instruct and care for thee; 

And lead thee in the pahts of the divine. 

Where thy untrammeled spirit will ascend, 
Will purer, brighter grow till thou art free. 

Where love and peace and joy will never end. 

And Christ, the Lord, with joy will welcome thee. 



A MEMORIAL TO GEORGE L. MYERS, 

(Second son of J. F. and Sarah C. Myers, who passed to 
spirit life at the age of one year and six months.) 

O, Georgie dear, thy lovely form. 

Was like the morning flower. 
That breaks beneath the blighting storm. 

And withers in an hour. 



Thy lovely spirit dwels above, 

In spheres celestial bright. 
With Chirst , whose great redeeming love. 

For us a beacon light. 



108 POEMS 

Thy form was perfect, features true. 
Thine eyes so dark and bright, 

Thy brilliant curls, a golden hue. 
And glistened in the light. 

Thy skin exceeding lilies fair, 

Face beautiful and true. 
With countenace beyond compare. 

Bright as the morning dew. 

We worshipped thy dear little form, 

Our baby boy so bright, 
So often cuddled in my arms. 

When I came home at night. 

O, how we miss our little elf. 

Our baby boy so fair, 
Since God has called thee to himself. 

To lead us> over there. 

O, loved one, it is joy complete. 
When e'er thou dost impart, 

To us a loving message sweet, 
To cheer our lonely hearts. 

By faith we see thy lovely form. 
Mid peace and joy and rest. 

Surrounded by celestial charms. 
In mansions with the blest. 

When we pass to that golden strand, 
On that bright shining shore. 

We'll join thee in that happy land. 
To dwell forevermore. 

And there with that angelic band. 
That bright celestial throng. 

Make music sweet with harps in hand. 
And endless praise prolong. 



POEMS 109 



And shout hosannali to the king, 
Whose life for man was given, 

That he might full salvation bring, 
And lead our souls to heaven. 



A MEIVIORIAL TO JOHIN RAY MYERS. 

(Third and youngest son of the author, J. P. Myers, who 
passed to spirit life at the tender age of three years.) 

O, darling Ray, so lovely and so bright, 

With eyes so blue, so radiant with light, 

When thou thy loving parents didst caress. 

Thy lovely charms our own fond hearts did bless, 

Thy bright eyes every little thing must see. 
When thy sweet little form sat on my knee, 
So happy and so full of mirth and glee. 
When papa sang his little songs to thee. 

Thy dainty little hands, and little feet. 
So nimble and so delicate and sweet, 
When wide awake could scarcely quiet keep. 
Until so tired thou didst fall asleep, 

O, dearest one, our darling blue eyed boy; 
Thou wast our pride, our life and light and joy, 
O, why were we so ruthlessly bereft, 
O, why our lonely bosom empty left? 

And thou our greatest joy and heart's delight. 
Called higher up, to spheres with angels bright. 
Where sylvan zephyrs stir the balmy air, 
Perfumed with roses sweet and flowers fair, 



110 POEMS 

Where angels fan the air with snowy wing, 
And bask in vernal breezes of the spring, 
And fountains with their sparkling water bright, 
Reflect the trees in mellow golden light. 

Where trees are ever green as vernal spring, 
And birds of gorgeous colors on the wing, 
AVhile many more will perch and sit and sing, 
And cause the air with melody to ring. 

Where Christ, the orb of one eternal day. 
With countenance so bright illumes the way, 
Whose cheering words and wonderous power benign. 
Fills everyone with joy and love divine. 

Our own dear little darling blue eyed boy, 

'Tis sweet that thou canst leave thy courts of joy, 

And linger with us here upon my knee. 

Where thou so joyous used to love to be. 

Methinks I in the evening often hear, 
The patter of thy little footsteps near, 
And often feel that thou surely must be, 
Reclining on my arm, upon my knee. 

And then I feel thy tender sweet caress. 
Which thou didst often give my heart to bless, 
And oft I feel thy sweet and loving kiss, 
Which fills my heart wit ecstacy and bliss. 

O, may thou with thy spirit lovely charm. 
Still come to me with pure affection warm, 
And keep my lonely heart filed with thy love. 
Until we meet in heavenly courts above. 



POEMS 111 

AN EVENING SOLILOQUY. 



My years are seventy and one, 
My stay on earth will soon be done, 
Eternal life I will have won. 
And with that grand procession 

With spirit wings I will have flown, 
Where Christ, the Lord, will meet his own, 
And bless them for the good they've done, 
And not for their profession. 

I then will meet friends who are true, 
Eternal friendships will renew, 
Trials and troubles will be few. 
And loving friends caress me; 

I there will shed no bitter tears. 
And leave behind all doubts and fears, 
And dwell in those celestial spheres, 
Where Christ the Lord will bless me. 

If we in life will do our best, 
An honest heart will be the test, 
Then Christ the Lord will do the rest, 
And bless our best endeavor. 

And when we reach that golden strand. 
That blissful bright and happy land. 
We'll join that joyful happy band. 
And dwell with Christ forever. 



112 POEMS 

A SCHOOL ESSAY FOR BIRNEY SPENCE. 

Dear friends my name is Birney Spence, with dearest 

friends I dwell, 
My aunt and uncle send me here to learn my lesson well, 
They want to make a man of me, an honor to the name, 
And I must every effort use, to rise to heights of fame. 

Some wicked hoys loaf on the road, and ramble all around, 
I do not wish to do like them, at school they should be 

found, 
For wicked boys who loaf and swear, and run off to the 

wood. 
Will neved learn their lessons well, or come to any good. 

I want to be a good boy, too, while I am in my youth. 

And treat all friends and schoolmates well, and always tell 

the truth. 
Then everyone will be my friend, my enemies be few, 
My friends will greet me with a smile and they will love me, 

too. 

As I grow to a larger boy, if it is in my power, 
I will not be a lazy boy, but busy every hour, 
I want to be a wise boy too, and be nobody's fool. 
Then I must learn my lessons well, when I attend the 
school. 

When I start business for myself I constantly will strive, 
By every honest means I can, financially to thrive. 
The comforts, and luxury of life, used carefully, I crave, 
Not, what I make will make me rich, but dollars that I save. 

As I grow up to be a man I'll set my standard high. 

And study well and work to reach that standard by and 

by, 
'T will then be nice, if friends proclaim, with one united 

voice. 
We want young Spence for Grovernor, he is the people's 

choice. 
(The above can be used for any boy by changing the name.) 



POEMS 113 

A SCHOOL ESSAY FOR CARLE SPEINCE. 

Dear friends I am a rustic lad, my name is Carly Spence, 
Dear aunt and uncle care for me, their kindness is immense, 
An education I desire, to friends I will be true. 
Then they will all be kind to me, and help me to get 
through. 



My lessons I will study well, my classmates to surpass, 
That I may stand, when school is out, at the head of my 

class, 
Then I will soon promoted be, and will my time employ, 
So I will gain my teachers love, and give my friends much 

joy. 



Although I*m young, and yet am small, and am not blessed 

with wealth, 
If I do really know myself, and still retain my health, 
I will not idle time away, of this please rest assured, 
I'll make a mark you will approve, I will upon my word. 



As I grow older don't you see, good books I will procure, 
And all the time I'm not at work their pages will explore, 
I'll try to live the golden rule, be honest as a sage. 
Make all the money that I can and save it for old age. 



I want to make a worthy man, who people will admire, 
To be a good and useful man I have a great desire. 
Then it will be so very nice if people, one and all. 
Choose me to represent them in the legislative hall. 

(The above can be used for any boy by arranging the name 
to fit the measure.) 



114 POEMS 

A SCHOOLBOY ESSAY FOR GEORGIE MYERS. 

Dear friends, George Myers is my name, like many other 

boys, 
I live right here in Fairbury, and State of Illinois, 
My mother calls me Georgie yet, just as she always did, 
While folks who do not know me call me a Fairbury kid. 



I am not large as all can see, but I am large enough, 
Though I should never large be, I'm made of real good 

stuff, 
I will excell in pluck and vim, if I do not in weight, 
And I will get up to the top, with big ones of the state. 



As I grow older, don't you see, my time I will improve, 
I will not idle time away, be always on the move, 
I'll try to live the golden rule, as duty will require, 
Then I will live to be a man, whom people will admire. 



I am an orphan as you know, and nothing else can do, 
But go to work with all my power and paddle my own 

canoe, 
I have resolved to forge my way to fortune and success, 
And trust my friends will stand by me, and God my efforts 

bless. 



I want to be a useful man, and by my acts proclaim. 

That I am worthy of my friends, who own and bear my 

name. 
And by good works and energy ascend the mount of fame* 
By honest life, and noble deeds, immortalize my name. 

(Above lines can be used by any boy by changing name- 
to suit the measure.) 



POEMS 115 

SCHOOL ESSAY FOR JOHNY MYERS. 

My name is Johny Myers, and in Fairbury I dwell, 

My mother sends me here to school to learn my lessons 

well, 
She wants to make a man of me, an honor to the name, 
I must not idle time way, but try to do the same. 

Some wicked boys loaf on the street, and ramble o'er the 

town, 
I do not wish to do like them, at school they should be 

found. 
Such wicked boys who loaf and swear and run off to the 

wood, 
Will never learn their lessons well, nor come to any good. 

As I grow up — a larger boy, if it is in my power, 

I will not be a lazy boy but busy every hour, 

I want to be a wise boy, too, and live the golden rule. 

Then I must always study well when I am at the school, 

I want to be a good boy, too, while I am in my youth. 

And treat my friends and schoolmates well, and always tell 

the truth. 
Then everyone will be my friend, my enemies be few. 
My friends will meet me with a smile, and they will love 
me. too. 



And then it will be very nice, if people will consent, 
When I grow up to be a man, to make me president. 
Sure, if they will, I'll be so good, that it will be my lot, 
To live to serve my four years out, and never get a shot. 

(The above can be used by any boy by changing the name.) 



116 POEMS 

SCHOOL ESSAY FOR J.' MEURL SPENCE. 

J. Meurl Spence, sir, is my name, to the world I now 
proclaim, 

I would gladly rise by efforts of my own, 
Rise to fortune and to fame, many men have done the same. 

To success and fame unaided and alone. 

Chorus: 

Tramp, Tramp, Tramp, I will keep moving to success, I'm 

bound to climb, 
For the man who courts delay he will never win the day, 
'Tis the man who meets engagements right on time. 

And as I am young today, I will by my interests stay. 

And improve each precious hour as I go. 
Every hour whiled away will no future profits pay, 

And a wasted life brings misery and woe. 

Chorus. 

When to school I'm kindly sent, I will try to be content, 
Study lessons well, and fool no time away, 

On good schooling I am bent, and my efforts will be lent. 
For a thorough education, it will pay. 

Chorus. 

All my leBsons I will heed, and my class I'll try to lead. 
On the ship of fame and fortune, I will sail. 

This shall be my living creed, truth and honesty indeed, 
Energy, and pluck, and honor, never fail. 

Chorus. 

And whene'er I go to work, I my duty will not shirk, 
But be faithful as the sun who rules the day. 

For 'tis only those who shirk, or the vain dishonest clerk, 
Who are forced to look for places far away. 



Chorus. 



POEMS 117 

In the race for fame and pelf, God helps him who helps 
himself, 

And the race of life is won by thought and deed, 
Then if I must help myself, I'll not linger on the shelf, 

But to sure success will hasten on with speed. 

Chorus. 

The amount of wealth we have is the net amount we save, 
Not the gross amount that comes within our door. 

Then no matter what I cravej will wait until I have. 
An accumulated surplus in my store. 

Chorus. 

From bad fellows I'll refrain, from their company abstain, 
For bad company good morals will corrupt. 

If its pleasure I would gain, a good book will entertain, 
And influence me good habits to adopt. 

Chorus. 

When to manhood I have grown, and good character have 
shown, 
And by education worthy of a place. 
Many friends my worth will own, and success my efforts 
crown. 
And for place and honor I will win the race. 

Chorus. 

On my honor I will stand, my influence will expand, 
I will square my thoughts and actions with the same. 

Then respect I will command and will be in good demand. 
And successfully ascend the mount of fame. 

Chorus. 

(The above lines can be sung to the tune of "Tramp, 
Tramp, the boys are Marching," and used by any boy, by 
arranging the name to suit the measure.) 



118 POEMS 

MY OWiN DEAR SWEET HOME. 

(The following lines can be sung to the tune of 'The Loved 
Ones at Home," composed by the author.) 

Though palaces roj^al, and pleasures surround us, 

And kings bestow homage at court as w^e roam, 
And welcome use cordially, no tie doth bind us. 

Like those long enshrined in the heart for the home, 
Its peace and cententment my heart fills with pleasure, 

And charms with a halo that elsewhere I miss. 
Which oft thrills my bosom with joy beyond measure, 

A home filled with love is a haven of bliss. 

Chorus : 

O Home, blessed home, I can never forget thee, 

Thy charms are most dear to my heart as I roam, 

Sweet thoughts of thy pleasures enthrall and beset me. 
And hasten m_y steps to my own dear sweet home. 

Though rustic our dwellings with humble surroundings, 

Our home be a cottage, and scant be the room, 
If filled with true love, peace and virtue abounding 

'Tis heaven on earth in that dear humble home, 
An exdle from home though surrounded w^ith splendor, 

His longing for home other thoughts will eclipse, 
While calling for home and friends loving and tender, 

He dies, with the half spoken words on his lips. 

Chorus. 

No one e'er awakened to life's full frutition, 

Who lived a life homeless, like the rolling stone, 
Their heart ne'er was filled by that peaceful condition, 

■ That sweetens this life in a home of our own. 
Sweet memories dear, of the home of my childhood, 



POEMS 119 

I sacredly, cherish and love as I roam, 
Sweet fragrance of woodbine and flowering wildwood; 
And prayers of the loved ones still hallow the home. 

Chorus. 

When often we think of the beauties of nature, 

A lesson we learn from the ant and the bee, 
That God hath iDrovided for each living creature, 

The means for a hom^e, but they all do not see. 
But man, ruthless man, prone to travel and wander, 

And oft among strangers continue to roam, 
His friends, hopes to blast and his treasure to squander, 

And often, too often, no place to call home. 

Chorus. 

We see men v/ith talent and fine education, 

Who drink, yet still hope that a cottage will come 
But down, down they sink, clear below former station, 

Have never, no never, a place to call home. 
We see men who labor and thoughtlessly wonder. 

And hope for a time when a dear home will come, 
Forgetting the fact while their earnings they squander, 

That only who save will be blessed with a home. 

Chorus. 

Go ask the young sailor when crossing the ocean, 

And riding the storm beaten waves as they foam, 
What place hath most charms o'er his love and emotion, 

He gladly responds *'Tis my dear, old, sweet home," 
Look up, thou unfortunate, poor and forsaken, 

If pure, true, and honest, whatever will come, 
Thy soul in a far better world will awaken, 

And there will be heir to a glorious home. 



120 POEMS 

TO ENOCH A. GASTMAN. 

(The following lines were written in 1905 after hearing of 
the marriage of the Hon. E. A. Gastman, who has been 
superintendent of schools at Decatur, 111., or county 
superintendent during his whole useful life, and an old 
friend of the writer. ) 

The scenes and pleasures of my youth are in my memory 

green, 
The Wesleyan with manv youths, always a pleasant scene, 
In *56 when in her youth, she many did install, 
Professor Sears was president, with teachers for us all. 

Professor Northrup, principal, and others quite as good, 
For primaries to languages, those faithful teachers stood. 
Where A. E. Stevenson, then young, in knowledge fast did 

grow. 
With James S. Ewing in his class, just fifty years ago. 

And there was Dave and Jesse Smith, preparing soon to 

bloom, 
Jone Lawrence, and his brother Tol, were then upon the 

boom. 
And little Duncan Wallace, too, the midget of the school, 
While Enoch Gastman, always square, kindly obeyed the 

rules. 

And there was George P. Davis, too, a nice and quiet boy. 
Who kept his studies well in hand, which gave the teachers 

joy. 
The Flags and Holmeses also there who were not very 

slow, 
Dan Holder, yes, and many more, just fifty years ago. 

But now, dear friends, we're growing old, no longer in our 

prime. 
The fleeting years pass swiftly by upon the wings of time, 
With hoary locks, and vision dim, still as we older grow. 
We're happy when we meet those frineds of fifty years ago.. 



POEMS 121 

Many lie under mounds of green, their spirits are at rest, 
While many seeking after wealth have moved on farther 

west, 
And very few yet here remain who then we used to know, 
O, how we miss those dear old friends of fifty years ago. 

Yes I rejoice to know dear friend that thou dost still possess 
Much of thy youthful vigor, yet thy efforts here to bless, 
That Cupid drew his little bow, so well he played the part 
That thou a wounded victim fell, he pierced thy lonely 
heart. 

Although the wound was quite severe, and in thy heart 

concealed. 
Thy friends feel sure the danger's past, the wound entirely 

healed. 
For thou hast a physician fair, whose skill and charms we 

know 
Hath made thy heart as young as 'twas, just fifty years ago. 

O, may she be like roses fair, her love as pure as they, 
Her heart and hand be ever kind and bless thee day by day. 
And fill thy life with joy and bliss, like music of the 

spheres. 
And be a guardian angel wife, through thy declining years. 

O, may Apollo crown thee both, with wreaths of love select. 
What Cupid planted with great care, let Hymen well pro- 
tect. 
And when storms of life are o'er and we are called to go, 
We'll meet those dear old friends we loved just fifty years 
ago. 



122 POEMS 

WHERE ARE THE FRIENDS OF MY CHILDHOOD. 

Where, O where; are the friends of my childhood. 
Who often came romping to play on the lawn, 

And then sally forth for a stroll through the wildwood, 
O, where are they now, are they gone, all gone? 

When Jack Frost was king o'er the fields and the meadows. 

At even we hied to the ice on the pond. 
Our skates quickly donned, by the moonlight, 'tween 
shadow, 

Then swift as an arrow made round after round. 

In summer we hied to Kickapoo, flowing 

Where cool shady pools were enticing and clear, 

And groves full of music of turtle doves cooing, 

Of thrushes sweet warbles, and meadow lark's whir. 

The fish were quite small, except some times a rover, 
Of uncommon size, came prospecting along, 

And we were as happy as bees in sweet clover, 

When we caught the big ones, of that finny throng. 

Ah, that was nice bathing, in warm sultry weather, 

So cool and refreshing to body and mind, 
When swimming and diving we vied with each other, 

None of us were anxious to be left behind. 

When school was the order we boys were in clover, 
The noon hour spent in propelling the ball. 

When seeming success o 'er our efforts would hover, 
A miss, and the rival in sport had the call. 

The friends of my childhood, and scenes so endearing. 
In mind they still haunt me, my thoughts they enchain. 

Their jolly young faces, and smiles so alluring, 
Rise up like a phantom, and with me remain. 



POEMS 123 

And oft in the progress of sweet sleep, and dreaming, 
A vision of youth on my mind is impressed, 

Collected around me, those youths are in seeming. 
Are they now in spirit, their bodies at rest! 

Hath breezes of time, with their strong, ceaseless motion. 

Relentlessly drifted them helplessly on, 
Their barques rolling high, on life's boisterous ocean, 

Their rudders all broken, and are they all gone. 

Where are they? the whippoorwill asks, full of sorrow, 
The turtle dove says, beyond life's stormy main, 

The nightingale's song, says tomorrow, tomorrow. 
In bright spheres elysian we'll meet them again. 



LINES TO MILTON THOMPSON AND WIFE. 

(Written at their wedding.) 

Let happiness crown the young pair 
With wreaths of joy rare* and select, 

What Cupid hath planted with care, 

May the Hymeneal bonds well protect. 

May each have a friend when in need. 

And their honeymoon last during life. 
May she have a husband indeed. 
He have a true loving wife. 

May they sail on the ocean of love. 
Have no breakers, nor storms, to annoy, 

May their little bark peacefully move, 
And their lives be continuous joy. 

May they write upon life's snowy page, 
Truth, virtue, contentment and love. 

That their sky may be clear when in age. 
And prepare them for mansions above. 



124 POEMS 

'TIS SWEET TO KNOW THEY CAN, 

I would not wish to live a day, 

Or any one to see, 
Would wish no longer here to stay, 

If no one cared for me. 

The sweetest pleasure, greatest bliss. 
That God to man hath given, 

Is knowing many care for us. 
On earth, also in heaven. 

It soothes the sorrows of the heart, 

When friends our burdens share. 
It thrills with joy through every part. 
To know they for us care. 

Each act and word brings its reward, 

Of envy, hate or love. 
Let us be always on our guard. 

In word and actions prove. 

That we have love and sympathy. 
And have a heart to share. 

The troubles of our fellow men, 
And do for others care. 

Then we will have the knowledge sweet. 
That they our troubles share. 

And gladly greet us when we meet, 
And really for us care. 



POEMS 125 

THE PIONEER. 

To J. F. Myers by Edwin O. Ropp. 

(The following lines were received by the author from his 
young poetical friend, Edwin O. Ropp, in response to 
verses received by him from the author.) 

His latch string band hangs always out, 

Replete with generous cheer. 
We welcome with a jovial shout. 

The genial pioneer. 

Sling to the winds formality. 

With rigid rule and chart. 
So long as hospitality. 
Still blazes in the heart. 

It was the bold frontiersman^s toil. 

The early settler's worth, 
That rendered Ilinois' soil, 

The richest land on earth. 

'Mong deeds of heroes brave and wise. 

Who labored long and bled. 
Behold the settler's sacrifice, 

Wove in with every thread. 

Float freedom's banner everywhere, 

While every honest art. 
Yields reverence to silver hair, 

LfOves every honest heart. 

We serenade with rhyming lay. 

And answering bugle blast, 
A singer of the present day, 

A musician of the past. 



126 POEMS 

Immortal work is never done, 

In glorious brotherhood, 
We greet the bard of Bloomington, 

Who toils for human good. 

The robin trills an ode to spring, 

Lo, softly coos the dove, 
X^et genial poets ever sing, 

Long lingering songs of love. 

The poet's aspiration soars. 

Swiftly on aerial wings. 
To him the tender heavenly loves. 

Are sweet congenial things. 

Is man immortaly designed, 

To live, enjoy and do? 
The thought is pleasing to the mind, 

*Tis sweet to deem it true. 

'Tis sweet to dream that heaven is fair, 

Fairer than e'er divined. 
That angels all are poets there, 

And every heart is kind. 



POEMS 127 

TO MY OLD FRIEND D. R. POTTER. 

(After his second marriage, who now resides at Harper, 
Kansas, was a farmer near Fairbury, 111., at the time 
the Fairbury Agricultural Society was organized and re- 
sided there until in the '80s and served with the author 
for years on the board of Fair directors and Highway 
Commissioners.) 

Dear friend, I never can forget, but often think and feel, 
A tender love for comrades who worked for the public weal. 
Of thee I often think, dear Tan, for thou our work did share 
As a highway commissioner — director of the fair. 

Then we were young, and in our prime, ambitious, full of 

life, 
And had the nerve \o push our plans, no matter what the 

strife^, 
And always kept our armor bright, no matter when the 

fight. 
With full resolve to win the day, and battle for the right. 

When Virgin was the president, directors, you and I, 
With many good ones on the board, the fair was flying high, 
And still she soars, with pinions wide, with satisfactory 

yield 
She floats triumphantly on top, and foremost in the field, 

When mild September came, dear Dan, with thousands to 

the fair. 
We always found thee prompt on time, thy fine stock also 

there, 
When in the ring, awards were made by judges good and 

true. 
Thy ribbons, Dan, were numerous, and often of the blue. 

When on the highway board, dear Dan, 'twas splendid work 

was done. 
Then Ed. Mahoney with us worked, as faithful as the sun. 
Our monuments are on the roads, for ages will remain. 
And generations yet to come, will realize the gain; 



128 POEMS 

For culverts there we made of stone, with arches covered 

o'er, 
And bridge abutments of the same, we made a score or 

more. 
And grubbed the stumps from forest roads, then ditched 

and graded low, 
Macadamized with st'one a few, 'twas twenty years ago. 

But now we're growing old, dear Dan, and many changes 

come, 
Like thee, some have g:one farther west, some to their spirit 

home, 
On many hills, neath granite gray, where silent graves are 

seen, 
Our dear old friends and loved ones lie, neath mounds of 

mossy green; 

While viewing memory's pages o'er, I wipe away the tear. 
When counting up the absent list, who to my heart were 

dear. 
The sable shades of soitow rise, obscure my pleasure so, 
I sigh and long to see my friends, of twenty years ago. 

Yet I rejoice to know, dear Dan, that thou dost yet retain, 
Thy youth and nerve and strength so well, that they with 

thee remain. 
That Cupid did not pass thee by, but shyly with his dart. 
Was ready at the proper time to pierce thy lonely heart; 

We have the news, that to his dart thou hast a victim fell, 
And from the latest bulletin, that thou art doing well. 
That thou hast a physician fair, with skill, who has no fears, 
But hopes to pull thee through, dear Dan, and keep thee 
many years. 

O, may she be like llllies fair, her heart as pure as they. 
And prove to be God's messenger, to bless thee day by day. 



POEMS 129 

And fill thy life with gladness, Dan, like music of the 

spheres. 
And be thy guardian angel, Dan, through thy declining 

years. 

May fair Apollo crown thy brow, with wreaths of joy select. 
What Cupid planted there with care, let Hymen well 

protect. 
Mayst thou write on life's fair page, truth, charity and love. 
And thus prepare a blissful home, in bright mansions above. 



TO MR. AND MRS. AIVIN REIK. 

(The following lines were written to Mr. and Mrs. Alvln 
Reik, who have charge of the 960-acre farm of the author 
near Green Ridge, Mo., after the death of their beautiful 
little son.) 

Weep not dear friends, O, weep no more, 

For he now dwelleth with the blest. 
And God hath called him on before, 
To lead thee to that land of rest, 

Then cheer thee up, and dry thy tears, 

For still he lives, his spirit free, 
To visit thee in coming years. 

Thy guardian spirit soon may be. 

For he was only given to thee, 

To win thy hearts forevermore, 
And taken while yet pure and free, 

To draw thee to that blissful shore. 

Although his body is at rest, 

His spirit in the spheres is free. 
He comes his parents to caress. 

And often lingereth on thy knee. 



130 POEMS 

He lingereth with thee on thy bed, 
And hovereth near thee day by day, 

His little form thou canst not see. 
When he would wipe thy tears away. 

Then weep no more, but dry thy tears. 
Thy loved one will to thee be given, 

When thou art done with earthly cares, 
Thou'lt meet him in a blissful heaven. 



TO MR, EDWIN O. ROPP. 

With cordial compliments of John F. Myers. 

(The poems: To Edwin O. Ropp, The Bard of the Ever- 
green City, were written by the author after having 
received from the brilliant young author, Edwin O. Ropp, 
his beautiful volume of poems, entitled: Life.) 

Thrice hail, brother bard, of the Evergreen City, 
With heart full of love let me thank thee, I find 

Thy dainty white booklet so charming and witty. 
Is brim full of exquisite gems for the mind. 

Its dress is as pure as the snow drops from heaven. 

Its rythm the work of a masterful mind, 
The thoughts are as pure as could angels have given. 

Perusing it exquisite pleasure I find. 

Thy pen has a charm from the muses alluring, 
Impartirig a charm to thy songs from above. 

The spirits of bards, with their love still enduring. 

Hath made thy Tieart beat to the chords of their love. 

Then press on, dear brother, with earnest endeavor, 
On life's scroll of fame let thy name ever shine. 

The muses will train with thy sprit forever, 

And lead thee to mansions where bards are divine. 



POEMS 131 

The man who succeeds, starts right, and stays by it, 
And hangs to the willows with body and soul, 

If forces oppose, he'il press on and defy it, 

By unswerving will he soon reaches the goal. 

And when in those bright spheres elysian, we meet them. 
Those guardian angels of song of the spheres. 

Our souls will o'erflow with sweet music and greet them. 
And joy be our portion, through eternal years. 



TO THE BAF?D OF THE EVERGREEN CITY, 
MR. EDWIN O. ROPP. 

Hail thou with pen so keen. 
Bard of the Evergreen, 

To thee I sing. 
Thy work is superfine, 
Tis full of love divine, 
Thy heart is tuned with mine, 

'T will blessings bring. 

Hail! to thy nimble quill, 
May it be never still, 
' Let it impart 

Rich gems of purest thought. 
Gems that cannot be bought. 
That are with blessings fraught. 
To reach the heart. 

I^ng be tHy years to live, 
For thou hast much to give, 

From muses sweet; 
Then let thy soul inspire, 
With true poetic fire. 
Send forth fhy hearts desire. 

The world to greet. 



132 POEMS 

SUCH IS LIFE. 

Written in June, 1906, before the wife and mother 
passed to Spirit life. 

In dear, old McLean, where the soft winds blow, 
The zephyrs perfumed kiss you all aglow, 
The fields in their splendor, stand side by side, 
And yoemen there in contentment abide. 

Where meadow lark floats on its airy wing, 
Glad notes of the. robin are heard in the spring. 
The turtle doves coo in the grove is heard, 
And blithesome the notes of the mocking bird. 

*Twas in thirty-five first my childhood hours. 
Were spent mid vines, and birds, and flowers, 
Where the tall oaks waved in the breezes fair. 
And the maples and lindens were lovely there. 

And my inafnt mind was awakened there, 
To this beautiful world and life so fair, 
I learned that all things should be done by rule. 
From Oliver March, at the Hinshaw school. 

*Tis nineteen hundred and six today. 

My near ones, and dear ones, have passed away, 

My parents and brothers and sisters all. 

Have payed the last debt, and answered the call. 

And my beloved children, yes every one. 
All, all to their bright spirit homes have gone. 
None left life to cheer, but my little wife. 
And soon we will meet them in spirit life. 

They^oft to our earthly dwelling come, 
And tell of their beautiful spirit home. 
They bring cheering messages, words of love, 
Consoling our hearts, till we meet above. 



POEMS 133 

A VISION. 

Written in June, 1906. 

*Twas in the lovely month of June, the sun was setting 

fair, 
In Miller park, nearby the lake, midst flowers sweet and 

rare, 
The soft moonlight was creeping on, all nature in repose. 
The night bird's warble soft and clear in melody arose. 

The waves stirred by the gentle breeze made music soft 

and sweet, 
A quiet peace stole o'er my soul, a lovely charm complete, 
And while in silence there I sat, in evening's golden light, 
My soul in silent worship charmed by the majestic night. 

As in the lovely gloaming there the fleecy clouds passed 
o'er, 

I thought of those I loved so well, who have passed on be- 
fore, 

Of those who passed o'er one by one, who were my joy 
and pride, 

My children came, all 'robed in white, in front and by my 
side. 

They stood as pure and beautiful as flowers in the May, 
Birdsell, and Cora, and Estella, George and little Ray, 
They all in sweet and lovely tones said. Darling papa, dear. 
We come with messages of love, to bring you words of 
cheer. 

With Ray and Georgie on my knee, a daughter on each 

side. 
The eldest, Birdsell, stood in front and thus they did abide. 
With loving words and fond caress, while I in joyful tears. 
Rejoiced in blissful ecstacy, and lived one hundred years. 

And as they floated from me, sounds of sweetest music 

came, 
I heard angelic voices call my dearst ones by name. 
They all said ,good night, papa dear,, we oft with you abide, 
Mamma and you are not alone, we're often by your side. 



134 POEMS 

MY CREED. 

Not found in church tenets or phrases neat. 
Arranged in numbered articles complete, 
Nor in the loud professions of the day. 
Of those who wear long faces when they pray. 

God's purpose I perceive in symboled sign, 
In acts of loving kindness, true, benign. 
The loving thought that shows upon the face, 
The symbol of a heart of loving grace. 

The open hand that brings the wayward in. 
And heals the wound, and washes out the sin, 
The kindly voice that speaks the words of cheer, 
'Til hope and health and courage reappear. 

The honest heart that stands for truth and right, 
And works for these with all its strength and might, 
With faith and trust in everlasting good. 
Beginning here, with human brotherhood. 

The tongue that speaks no guile in time or place. 
But talks to elevate the human race. 
The ear that hears the helpless orphan's cry. 
And lends a hand to help their wants supply. 

Indeed if to God's purpose you are true, 
Do unto all as they should do to you. 
In these I find the oracles divine 
On which to build a faith supreme, benign. 

And shape material for a mansion fair. 
In which to dwell, when I am over there. 
In these I find the germ, I find the seed. 
Of what my soul can call its crowning creed. 



POEMS 135 

THAT BUGGY RIDE. 

{John G. Myers, the father, delighting in a joke and being 
inclined to tease wrote the following lines in 1856, when 
his son, the author, brought his intended bride in a 
buggy, one Sunday morning, to the Grassy Ridge church. 

One pleasant summer morning as I went out to rove, 
I saw a horse and buggy, start off for Randolph's grove, 
This splendid horse and buggy quite soon returned again, 
The buggy was not empty, but I could see quite plain. 

A gentleman and lady, a loving happy pair, 
Was in it snugly seated, the horse they did not spare, 
This splendid horse and buggy so fleet upon the track, 
I scarce could tell his color but I think that he was black. 

This gentleman and lady was of the highest grade. 
The gentleman was handsome, erect and finely made. 
The lady she was beautiful, her form beyond compare, 
She filled my heart and eye, and I spell-bound at her did 
stare. 

The gentleman was happy, and his heart was in a flame, 
You are my darling angel, he would now and then exclaim, 
Incessantly he gazed upon that charming beauty bright 
His heart and soul was overrun with fountains of delight. 

Her voice was like sweet music, it electrified his heart, 
Until at last beyond a care, he fell by Cupid's dart, 
That buggy ride I'll n'er forget, it so attracted me, 
I laugh to think about it yet, guess who that pair can be. 



136 POEMS 

IN MEMORY OF MRS. M. A. BILLS, 
(A beloved sister of the author.) 

O, loved one, since thou art gone time lingers weary^ 
The song bird hath warbled, a sad minor strain, 

The winds seem to sigh, O, so sad and so dreary. 
And laughter seems laden with sorrow and pain. 

Yet why should we weep, when thy loving words spoken^ 
Said weep not my loved ones,and never deplore, 

For Jesus will lead me, and I will awaken, 

To dwell with our loved ones, who passed on before. 

Always for the right, and yet so unassuming, 

Thy kind loving heart no more faihtful could be. 

Thy pure christian walk, so discreet and becoming. 
Hath wrought a bright crown full of glory for thee. 

All hail! blessed hope that thy words do inspire. 

Thy Christian example let every one heed. 
For thou hast been tried in adversity's fire. 
And passed through triumphant, a Christian indeed. 

We ne'er can forget the last look that we gave thee. 
For peace, love and innocence, and loving grace, 

Impressed on thy countenance, destined to save thee, 
Effulgently beamed from thy sweet loving face. 

Dear one, may the charm thou hast given thy story. 

To us be a guide over life's trouble sea, 
And light up the way, to a bright crown of glory, 

A haven of safety with Jesus and thee. 



POEMS 137 

TO THE MEMORY OF WILLIAM CRUIKSHANK. 

(William Cruikshank was brother-in-law to the author, was 
suddenly killed by a pair of mules and was an examplary 
man.) 

Dear brother, since thou art gone sadly we miss thee. 

Deep sorrow o'ershadows the hearts thou didst love. 
Thy loved one's at home, who so fondly caressed thee. 

Are lonely, and long for to meet thee above. 

Thy sad cruel fate, it hast sorely bereft us. 

And cast sable shades o'er the heavens once bright, 

Dark clouds seem to gather, no sunlight is left us, 

And noonday seems veiled with the curtains of night. 

Yet when, for a moment, we pause in our sorrow, 
And think of thy virtues, for many were they, 

We know that for thee there's a bright blooming morrow; 
A home with the just, where the bright angels stay. 

Not he who says. Lord, Lord; is always rewarded, • 
And decked with a crown, that was made for the just. 

But he who the rights of all men hath regarded, 

With honor and love, will be crowned with the blest. 

We feel that thy spirit will often be near us. 

Although at the board will be vacant thy chair. 

Thy presence will many times lovingly cheer us. 

Our eyes not behold thee, yet thou wilst be there. 



To guard us and guide us, with loving devotion, 

Impressing our hearts with truth, virtue and love. 

That we may pass safely o'er life's boisterous ocean. 
And meet thee, with loved ones, in mansions above. 



138 POEMS 

FAIRBURY, LIVINGSTON COUNTY, ILLINOIS. 

In grand old Livingston's confines the T. P. & W. line. 
At the junction of the Wabash quite serene, 

Is a city that is fine, on a beautiful incline, 
And among the inland cities she's a queen. 

There she sits in regal state, put on city airs of late, 
She is building for herself an honored name. 

Her resources very great, more than we can estimate, — 
As a trading point she's won an honest fame. 

She has railroads that are fine, more will soon fall into 
line, 
Which predict for her a long and healthy boom. 
And vast beds of coal that's fine, that will ages take to 
mine. 
And from which great trade and revenue will come. 

Of her agricultural joys she is making little noise, 
Of her fertile land and splendid yields of grain; 

But, I say, Fairbury boys, hunt all over Illinois, 
And you'll go back to Fairbury to remain. 

She has water works that's fine, that for health is good, 
benign, 

And some streets superbly paved within the town, 
And an opera complete, where the people often meet, 

Where there's many plays and lectures of renown. 

She has churches, many kinds, and has ministers divine, 
^Vho will give advice to guard you on the way, 

From their influence benign you to morals will incline, 
And you soon will learn to watch as well as pray. 

She has doctor's that are grand, always ready and on 
hand 



POEMS 139 

If their services you think you really need; 
Some are surly, some are bland, but disease they under- 
stand, 
And will fix you up if possible with speed. 

And she has three solid banks, — they stand high up in 
the ranks, — 
Are a splendid help to business and trade, 
And her merchants honest, frank, and not one of them a 
crank, 
They can furnish you with anything that's made. 

And she has a lovely park, — ^grander far than Noah's 

Ark,— 

Both for meetings and for pleasure it was made, 
If you tire of your work and in leisure would embark. 
You can recreate and rest beneath its shade. 

And her Fairground is replete, ground and fixtures all 
complete, 
And bedecked with many trees in lovely green, 
And 'tis seldom that you meet with a track, her track to 
beat. 
For an autumn exhibition she's a queen. 

And her annual autumn fair, — very few with it compare, — 

It is hard to duplicate within the state. 
And five days within the year, many come from far and 
near, 

For it's educating benefits are great. 

Oh, thou city, Fairbury! thou art ever dear to me. 
And thy many charms my memory encliain, 

And should fate encompass me as an exile o'er the sea. 
Yet my heart and love with thee would still remain. 



140 POEMS 

A PATRIOTIC ODE. 

Ye sons of Columbia the fairest of earth, 
Ye heirs of the land that gave liberty birth; 
Your vigils of freedom oh never resign, 
Let watch fires of liberty brilliantly shine. 

Oh kindle your bosoms with patriot fires, 
And cherish the deeds of your patriot sires. 
Remember how nobly they fought for our good, 
Our freedom and liberty bought with their blood. 

Chorus. 

Then rise and shout, hail! to the patriot band, 

Our glorious banner and free happy land. 

Sing anthemns of praise to our Washington's name. 

Thrice hail to the heroes of untarnished fame. 

Yes, Washington, father; thy praise we will sing, 
From proud, thankful hearts oft thy glory v/ill ring. 
Thy name by all nations respected will be, 
While tyrants v/ill tremble neath liberty's tree. 

And forefathers bright in our memories ye dwell. 
While thoughts of thy valor our bosoms doth swell. 
The legacy left us we'll ever retain. 
Though tyrants and traitors should rally again. 

Chorus. 

Oh heaven blest country; oil free happy land; 
The loyal, the faithful they by thee will stand, 
The patriots theme and the alien's home, 
A haven of safety for all who will come. 

Thy ships are now sailing in every port, 

Thy flag is respected by every court. 

The laurels that crown thy brave sons ever green. 

And thou among nations a recognized queen. 

Chorus. 



POEMS 141 

Oh glorious banner that heavens adorn, 
Forever thou'lt float on the breeze of the morn, 
Thy triumph be glorious, thy destiny long, 
The pride of the nation, the theme of her song. 

When the voice of the eagle is heard in the sky 
Invaders and rebels in terror will fly. 

For she soars high and proudly, with white, blue and red, 
Since the palmetto flag, with her serpent, is dead. 

Chorus. 

Yes, bright bonny banner that waves in the air 
No foe, none whatever, thy beauty shall mar. 
For our motto shall be, till our last vital breath, 
Our flag and our country, and victory or death. 

We'll drive all thy foes from freedom's bright land, 
And ever Columbia a nation will -stand; 
Whilst thou bonny flag shalt continue to wave 
O'er a land that is free and her sons ever brave. 

Chorus. 



LINCOLN, THE MAN OF DESTINY. 

This beautiful land was destined by creation 
For freedom and liberty in every state. 

A haven for all the oppressed of each nation, 

Where all men can worship as conscience dictates. 

But men, cruel men, God's own purpose perverted. 
Made laws of oppression their own hands to save. 

A part of the state were to slavery converted, 
The negro was forced in to work as a slave. 



142 POEMS 

The Godess of Liberty, shorn of her glory, 

Came down from her throne and in horror did stand. 

To God she related her sorrowful story, 

How she was dethroned by the laws of the land. 

She prayed to the Father to change this condition. 
That she might ascend to her lovely white throne, 

To turn this dear land from the road to perdition, 

That freedom might claim this fair land as her own. 

Oh, Father; to sit on my throne for this nation 
Would be inconsistent and freedom despoil; 

Bring shame and reproach to that exalted station. 
You never, can never, mix water with oil. 

She then said in anguish and plaintively tender, 
I cannot be godess while slavery remains. 

If thou art in truth this fair nation's defender, 
Oh, come to her rescue, and loosen her chains. 

The heart of the Father was moved beyond measure. 
To rescue the nation the time was at hand. 

Imbued with compassion he acted with pleasure. 
And raised up a Moses to free this fair land. 

He brought forth a child midst the ranks of the lowly 
And reared him where poverty lurked at the door. 

He there learned to know honest labor is holy; 
His heart was imbued with a love for the poor. 

His great heart with sympathy full to o'er flowing, — 
A champion of freedom in youth he had been, — 

Proclaiming all men were born free, plainly showing 
That justice demands equal rights for all men. 

His beacon was justice, his talisman honor, 

His password, progression; and wisdom his guide,. 

He scorned to acquiesce in acts of dishonor. 
Do good to all men was his motto — his pride. 



POEMS 143 

His voice as the champion of freedom was heeded, 
By lovers of freedom wherever he went; 

They hailed him with joy as the Moses then needed. 
And called him to rule as God's own President. 

The bonds of the nation were then rent asunder. 
By lovers of slavery, who dared to declare, 

A great revolution, a pro-slavery blunder, 

Of blood shed and carnage and horrors of war. 

The Moses at hand as the head of the nation, 

The ship of state steered over war's bloody waves, 

She floated triumphant through war's desolation, 
And landed to freedom her millions of slaves. 

The Goddess of I^iberty, now in her glory. 
Is seated again on her lovely white throne, 

And greeting the world with her wonderful story, 
How h eedom triumphed in a land of her own. 

Oh, lovers of liberty — sons of this nation — 

Rejoice in your God- given freedom today; 
As guardians of freedom you're now on probation, 

Ob, guard it with care, that it may ne'er pass away. 

Oh, Lincoln, thy name is a lamp for all nations; 

Beloved and revered in the land of thy birth; 
A beacon of light for all men in all stations. 

Thy fame is resounding all over the earth. 



144 POEMS 

ROOSEVELT, THE PEOPLE'S PRESIDENT. 

The time is here when every man should party throw 

aside, 
And vote for brave and honest men the ship of state to 

guide, 
Such men as Folk, and Roosevelt, then she to success 

would glide. 
And grafters be scarce throughout the nation. 



He stands for all the people's rights, his nerve and will 

are great. 
He's using all his force to regulate the railroad rates, 
And stop those corporations granting unjust freight re- 
bates. 
So all can have justice in the nation. 



This nation is accursed with many trusts in her confines, 
Absorbing all the profits of the forest, fiields and mines, 
He's put your Uncle Sam to work to burst unjust com- 
bines. 
And let justice reign throughout the nation. 



The great insurance companies are found to have no 

soul. 
Absorbing all the profits, while their patrons they cajole, 
But Roosevelt says, the powers that be, those rascals 

must control, 
And stop disgrace within the nation. 



Our navey is superlative, her fame extending far. 
Her past success the joy and pride of many a veteran tar. 
And Roosevelt wants to keep her up in superb shape for 
war. 
Insuring the peace of this great nation. 



POEMS 145 

The Philippines are struggling from misfortunes of the 

past, 
Advancing and progressing in civilization fast, 
And Roosevelt wants free trade for them, to weld their 

friendship fast, 
And teach them to love this mighty nation. 



The Panama canal when made, will spread this nation's 

fame, 
Add millions to her coffers, and immortalize her name. 
And give to her supremacy in the commercial game. 
And Roosevelt will rush it to completion. 



All immigrants from foreign lands, objectionable here, 
Who will not make good citizens, of such we must be- 
ware. 
And Roosevelt says enforce the laws, and keep this 
country clear. 
Of unworthy settlers in the nation. 



He is the nation's President both North and South pro- 
claim, 

He labors for the interests of the North and South the 
same. 

The people of the North and South now magnify his name. 
Throughout this united, happy nation. 



146 POEMS r 

PIONEERS OF LIVINGSTON COUNTY, ILLINOIS. 

In eighteen and thirty, 'twas late in October, 

That Major M. Darnall and wife here did land, 

Grand heroes in courage and honest and sober, 
Midst Indian tribes here they made a bold stand. 

And here consecrated to white men and farming, 
This beautiful land yet by Inidians controlled; 
From that grand young couple this country so charming. 

Arose like a phoenix, the half yet untold. 

Soon after they came many others collected. 

Built up cabin homes near the groves as of yore. 

Their bodies now rest in its bosom protected. 
Their spirits have passed to a far better shore. 

In thirty-one Williamson Spence and his brothers 
Came from old Kentucky, and came here to stay. 

Found plenty of room, had for neighbors no others, 
Except Mayor Darnalls, in that early day. 

The first couple married in Livingston county 

Was Miss Mary Darnall and Williamson Spence, 

They were to each other a glorious bounty, 

For young folks were scarce, and the country immense. 

In thirty-two came Richard Moore, he selected 

A place that was lovely — east side of the grove, — 

Where he from the cold northwest winds was protected. 
And never again had desire to rove. 

Also Nathan Popejoy in thirty-two landed, 
James W. McDowell that year took a stand 

Close by the Vermillion, financially stranded. 
By work and industry got plenty of land. 



POEMS 147 

In thirty-three Sylvester Perry had landed 

And Uncle John Darnall, — a preacher they say, 

Although few the hearers, together they banded 

And Uucle John taught them to watch and to pray. 

In thirty-four came Martin Travis and brothers, 
And located at the south end of the grove. 

Were good, honest fellows, and like many others. 
They helped by their labor the country improve. 

In thirty-five Glen Moore, though young when he landed^ 
Was born in November at his father's cot. 

In thirty-six John W. Marks, almost stranded. 
Came also and settled and here cast his lot. 

The year thirty-seven L. Louderback landed, 

Both worthy and honest, he soon made his mark. 

Also George B. Foster a journey had ended 
From Tioga county, the State of New York. 

The year thirty-nine B. Hieronymus joined them, 

Miss Elvina Darnall he took for a wife. 
Was frugal and honest — the dollars he coined them — 

Bought six hundred acres, the work of his life. 

In forty-three landed in Pontiac township 

the man Phillip Rollins; he soon did employ 

His time on the farm and his skill as a millwright. 
Bought five hundred acres in age to enjoy. 

In forty-four came R. C. Straight and Jake Streamer^ 
Each had when he landed a small store of pelf. 

Each played well his part as the country's redeemer^ 
Made money and also cared well for himself. 

The year forty-seven Judge Babcock came also, 

And gave to the public a liberal hand, 
Was judge and attorney, a great stock man also, — 

A farmer and bought a large body of land. 



148 POEMS 

In forty-eight came Uncle Thomas McDowell, 
Far out on the prairie he made him a farm. 

Where plenty the snakes and the wolves often howled, 
Which then had for Tommy an exquisite charm. 

In forty-nine came our Dr. Ostrander, 

Was just the right man for the country you see. 
He cured many sick ones, a tiller of land sir, 

A farmer of fruit and the Italian bee. 

In fifty came J. P. McDowell and brothers, 
A splendid addition to this favored land. 

They opend up farms as did then many others; 
They prospered and money made hand over hand. 

In fifty came also our friend Jesse Hanna, 

James Tanner, a good one; and Ephraim S. Clark. 

Also Eli Myer, also Richard Hanna, 

They soon were located and got down to work. 

In fifty-one came Richard Crouch and James Madden, 

And Joseph S. Tucker and George Applegate. 
When they viewed this country their hearts it did 
gladden; 
In truth there is no better land in the state. 

In fifty-two came Hugh McKee here to settle; 

And Benjamin Humiston early did land; 
And Charles S. McGregor, all made of good mettle, 

And for this new country they played a good hand. 

In fifty-three came John J. Taylor and Bennett; 

Hugh Robinson also and S. L. Conine, 
And all were so pleased that they soon were right in it, 

And thought this new country was just superfine. 

In fifty-four came T. A. Beach and John Virgin, 

John Bodly and all thought this country was grand; 



POEMS 149 

And to the investor insured a big margin, 

And Tommy and Bodly bought thousands of land. 

In fifty-five came L. B. Dominy and Bartlet, 

And A. J. Pillsbury and L. McIldufC. 
They found for investment a wonderful outlet, 

For safety the Illinois land was the stuff. 

In fifty-six came Morris Johnson and Brydia's, 
Also Thomas Spofford, who came from afar. 

They proved to be men of good financial ideas 

And all built up homes that were quite up to par. 

The year fifty-seven came Strobel and Coomer, 
And Joseph S. Babcock and Henry Hornbeck. 

Land still on the raise and this country a boomer. 
Which brought Joel Tucker^ also I. J. Krack. 

In fifty-eight came A. E. Harding, attorney. 
Also George C. Taylor and George B. Gray. 

To seek out a fortune they came a long journey, 
And were so well pleased they concluded to stay. 

In fifty-nine came Robert Elmore and Linscot, 

And in their finances success they have won, 

And each have procured a respectable land plot; 
And came D. L. Murdock and H. Remington. 

In sixty came big-hearted Horace M. Gillett, 

A merchant and dealer, he here made a stand. 

A contract he always was ready to fill it. 

Came Westervelt also and purchased some land. 

Of all v/ho came later and in fact no others, 
Contributed more for the good of this land. 

Than that old reliable firm, Walton Brothers, 

Since here they located and opened their stand. 



150 POEMS 

And others came early, quite worthy of mention. 
The date of their coming I have not at hand. 

There was Barney Phillips, full of good intentions, 
Also Hughey Steers very early did land. 

And came Henry Darnall and Robin Moore early, 
Also Chauncey Standish and Frank Moore as well, 

The Donoho's, Cumpston's and others came early, 
For pioneer homes in this country to dwell. 

And Decatur Vaetch and John Vail came here early. 
And Thomas Jones also, all owning much land. 

And Fredus P. Beach and Will Bull, good men clearly. 
And Coopers and Davis, a good worthy band. 

And also came early my friend Caleb Patton, 
Also William Bailey and good Isam Moore, 

And Uncle Will Fugate, also M. L. Stratton, 
And Beojamin Walton and Uncle John Loar. 

Also my old friend Orin Phelps came here early. 
And Jonathan Darnall was one of the first. 

And no better men ever came, I think clearly, 
Big-hearted and honest and true to their trust. 

Dear Fairbury then was a thing of the future; 

Tall prairie grass growing where buildings now stand. 
Where many wild deer and other wild creature. 

Disported and reveled and roamed o'er the land. 

Alas, those old heroes hare nearly all left us. 

And few now remain of that once stalwart band. 

Their passing has sadly and sorely bereft us. 

Their mantles now rest on the youths of the land. 

On many a hill neath the gray granite standing 

The graves of those heroes and loved ones are seen. 

Their spirits passed over, in glory expanding. 

Their bodies lie silent beneath mounds of green. 



POEMS 151 

On that shining shore they received spirit vision, 
Attended by friends at their spiritual birth, 

Who lead them to rest in bright mansions elysian. 

From where they oft visit their friends here on earth. 

They bask in the sunshine of summer n'er ending, 
And fragrance of flowers where love never dies. 

And soft sylvan zephyrs, with sweet music blending. 
Where bright jewels sparkle with gleams from the 
skies. 

Thus man meets his doom, like the flower in blowing, 
In vigor and strength he remained but a day. 

Oft plucked in the bloom while sweet fragrance bestow- 
ing. 
His earth life soon ended he passeth away. 



WHAT IS HELL? 

Hell's a condition, all should learn. 
And not a place where souls will burn, 
But to escape it all should yearn, 
And strive to shun the hell. 

'Tls sore remorse within the heart, 
Of those who fail to do their part, 
And to dishonest means resort. 
Oh such, oh such is hell. 

'Tis discord in the brotherhood, 
Where dire contention long has stood, 
Retarding everything that's good, 
Oh such, I say, is hell. 



152 POEMS 

'Tis battles, pestilence and war. 
Where reason is dethroned and rare, 
Where love and justice have no share. 
For surely such is hell. 

'Tis envy, jealousy and strife, 
A fretful, quarreling man and wife. 
And many dwell therein for life, 
For hell is always there. 

Intoxicants of every kind. 
Are full of hell, please bear in mind. 
They take your wealth, also your mind, 
Of all such hells beware. 

Then shun all hells whatever you do. 
To every good impulse be true. 
Then heaven will encompass you, 
And you will have no hell. 



WHERE IS HELL? 

'Tis in the heart of those who close 
Their eyes to other people's woes, 
No sympathy for friends or foes. 
Oh there, oh there, is hell. 

In every house in this domain. 
Where jealousy and envy reign, 
No harmony does it contain. 
For there they live in hell. 

*Tis any place where as a whole. 
They try each other to cajole, 
And have no love within the soul. 
Oh, surely there is hell. 



POEMS 153 

Where war is raging right and left, 
And men, of reason are bereft, 
Resort to murder, pillage, theft. 
Oh there, is red hot hell. 

Where rum and brandy, whiskey, beer. 
Is sold and drunk through license fair, 
The hottest hell we have is there. 
For there's a burning hell. 

When after death the spirit sees. 
Neglected opportunities. 
Remorse will then his conscience seize, 
And that will be his hell. 

He'll occupy a lower sphere. 
Than those who have their conscience clear. 
But he can climb to stations higher. 
By striving to do well. 



WHAT IS HEAVEN? 

Heaven is a condition sweet. 
Of love and harmony replete. 
You'll find it where all good souls meet, 
'Tis a happy condition. 

*Tis sympathy for worthy poor, 
A helping hand to tide them o'er, 
And add unto their scanty store, 
Of such, of such is heaven. 

'Tis friendship for all whom we greet, 
No matter where, or when we meet, 
And help to guide the indiscreet. 
Of such, of such is heaven. 



154 POEMS 

*Tis love for all humanity. 

Though white or black, or bond or free. 

All brothers for eternity. 

Of such, of such is heaven. 

*Tis truth and charity and love, 
Eternal justice from above. 
For all mankind who live and move. 
Of such, of such is heaven. 

Then if you dwell in heavenly land, 
You by the golden rule must stand. 
Give each and all a brother's hand. 
For such, for such is heaven. 



WHERE IS HEAVEN? 

Where father, mother, daughter, son. 
Have love and kindness for each one, 
And all are true as noonday sun. 
Oh there, oh there is heaven. 

Where each their every cross doth bear. 
No evil thoughts their lives to mar, 
And each their brothers trials share. 
Oh there, oh there is heaven. 

If on the land we do reside. 
Or sail the ocean's rolling tide, 
If peace and harmony abide. 

Oh there, oh there is heaven. 

When on the tropics fruitful land, 
Or on the frigid, barren strand, 
If love directs each thought and hand. 
Oh there, oh there is heaven. 



POEMS 155 

If every one their cross would bear. 
The golden rule, their actions square, 
Be ruled by love no matter where, 

The whole world would be a heaven. 

And when we all pass over there. 
All who have done their duty here, 
Are full of love and conscience clear, 
Will have a home in heaven. 

For heaven is in every place. 
Where love and harmony and grace 
Abound among the human race, 
On earth also in heaven. 




THE POEMS 

OF 

JOHN GROVE MYERS 

FATHER OF THE AUTHOR 
OF THIS BOOK 



158 POEMS 

EULOGY ON ABRAHAM LINCOLN. 

(The eight following poems were written by John Grove 
Myers, the father of the author, John F. Myers. 
The eulogy on Abraham Lincoln and the one entitled 
The Great Rebellion, were written soon after the death 
of the great Emancipator.) 

This glorious nation mourns her chief. 
All patriots are bowed with grief, 
His glorious work hath given relief. 
He died for liberty. 

Ye patriots of every state. 
Give praise to Abraham the Great, 
'Twas he who opened freedom's gate, 
To make the states all free. 

He climbed to fame through national strife, 
From out the common walks of life. 
When freedom was with dangers rife. 
He pleaded freedom's cause. 

Through him the ruling powers that be. 
Proclaimed this nations jubilee, 
That every slave should be set free. 
And help to make our laws. 

Historians will record his fame. 
And infants learn to lisp his name. 
Despots and tyrants blush for shame. 
To read his history. 

God's chosen instrument was he, 
Proclaiming peace and liberty. 
All honor to his memory. 
He died the slaves to free. 



POEMS 159 

He played for liberty a part, 
That gained his country/s thankful heart. 
He's there enshrined to ne'er depart, 
He was God's blessing sent. 

It was his policy to see, 
That man should everywhere be free, 
Enjoying life and liberty, 
That made him president. 

At freedom's shrine he ever bowed. 
His voice for freedom sounding loud. 
His wish to free all men he vowed. 
And sealed it with his blood. 

He was beloved by many men. 
His peer few men have ever been, 
A glorious theme for poet's pen, 
A patriot true and good. 

He left behind a glorious name. 
Emblazoned on the scroll of fame, 
'Twill ever shine a dazzleing flame, 
A lamp of liberty. 

O, parents to your children tell, 
How glorious this martyr fell. 
That ever in their hearts may dwell, 
A love for liberty. 



160 POEMS 

THE GREAT REBELLION. 

(This song was written by John Grove Myers, after the 
close of the Civil War.) 

Air — Lafeyette Quickstep 

The great rebellion's overthrown, 
The battle's fought, the victory's won, 
And slavery's dead, and secession. 
Forever, we pray. 

Our banner waves in proud array. 

From Mexico to Florida, 

In every state that went astray. 

Hurrah! hurrah! ! hurrah! ! ! 

The wayward sister states that erred, 
Not one is lost or disappeared — 
The Union's safe for which we feared, 
And peace crowns the day. 

Ye loyal, faithful, conquering band, 
Who fought and bled for freedom's land. 
Immortalized your names will stand 
Till time shall fade away. 

Ye gallant sons of Washington, 
A glorious piece of work you've done; 
Enjoy the peace your valor won. 
And feast and sport and play. 

Your gallantry has won a fame 
That's brilliant like a dazzling flame, 
The traitors all you've put to shame — 
You've well made it pay! 

Sit down and rest and take your ease. 
And bathe and bask in Freedom's breeze^ 
And marry any one you please — 
Some sweet lady gay. 



POEMS 161 

The ladies now can dry their tears, 
And kiss the illustrious volunteers, 
And parted loves embrace their dears, 
O! happy, happy day! 

Old Jeff, they say in wild dismay, 
Adorned himself in woman's 'ray, 
And undertook to run away 
Into old Mexico. 

But Col. Pritchard's Yankee band. 
Too swift on foot for Jeff's command, 
Detained his hoops and made him stand, 
And will not let him go. 

So hang him up in effigy 
Upon a sour apple tree. 
So high that everyone can see, 
And there let him be. 

And if again a foe annoys. 
Send a dispatch to Illinois — 
The banner state for fighting boys 
In every emergency. 

Our banner waves triumphantly 
Upon the gulfs — upon the sea — 
And o'er the brave, and o'er the free. 
In sweet America. 

Our Constitution ne'er shall end; 
Our gloriouse Union we'll defend 
In every state till shall end. 
And shine in open day. 

Note— At the close of the War of the Rebellion hoop 
skirts were worn by ladies and also by Jefferson Davis when 
he attempted to make his escape from the United States of 
America to Mexico. 



162 POEMS 

TO MRS. MARY MYERS. 

(After her Decease; Mother of J. F. Myers, by her Hus- 
band, John Grove Myers.) 

O, who can give to my sad spirit relief, 

I am stricken with sorrow and burdened with grief; 

My Mary is gone and alas I am alone. 

That lovely sweet Mary of mine. 

She flourished a while like the roses in May, 
But alas, she was smitten and faded away; 
I grieve for her daily, alas she is gone. 
That lovely sweet Mary of mine. 

She was loving and kind all the days of her life. 
And filled her part well as a true loving wife, 
Her work was well done when her pleasure begun, 
And why should I sorrow and pine. 

For fifty-six years on this earth she did sail. 
On the ocean of love, in a sweet pleasant gale. 
And when she was called she for Zion did sail, 
That lovely sweet Mary of mine. 

She washed her robes white in the blood of the lamb. 
And she sits at the feet of the blessed I am. 
She feasts upon love in the heavens above. 
That lovely sweet Mary of mine. 

Her virtue and piety ne'er can be told; 
For the world was not worthy such treasure to hold; 
In the cause of her Savior her life did unfold. 
Her work was all for the divine. 

A Soldier for Christ she was faithful and true, 
And finished the work she was given to do. 
Her battles are o'er and her crown is in view. 
That lovely sweet Mary of mine. 



POEMS 165 

Let all who survive her reflect while they live 
On the pious instruction she often did give, 
And meet her above in bright mansions of love. 
To dwell with the Savior* divine. 

O, sorrow and sighing are j^ou all in vain. 
Ah, no: happy thought we shall meet her again. 
For ever to reign with the lamb that was slain, 
And that lovely Mary of Mine. 



IN MEMORY OF MY BLUE EYED MARY. 

(The first Wife of John Grove Myers.) 

O, once I had a bosom friend. 
The dearest one I knew. 
And she was faithful to the end. 
Her heart was pure and true. 

The dearest secrets of my heart. 
To her I did unfold. 
Of me she was a precious part. 
Of greater worth than gold. 

Then on the pleasant stream of love. 
We joyfully did glide, 
And Hymen's ship did safely move 
O'er every rolling tide. 

I then was happy , then was blest. 
Free from a troubled mind, 
My heart in quiet seemed to rest. 
From woe of every kind. 



164 POEMS 

But O, the ruling powers that be, 
That o'er the fates preside, 
That gave the treasure unto me. 
Hath plucked her from my side. 

The Savior claimed her as His own, 
Her spirit took its flight, 
To dwell near his celestial throne, 
In mansions of delight. 

And O, the joy it will be sweet. 
When on that blissful shore. 
We meet her in those courts above, 
To dwell forevermore. 



FEMALE INFLUENCE. 

A true woman's influence over mankind 
Has never been measured, dame nature designed 
That she wield a moral influence o'er man. 
It ever was so since the world first began. 

Woman was designed in the great divine plan. 
To bless and improve and to glorify man; 
Without such a blessing we plainly can see 
What the fate of mankind in the future would be. 

When fresh in her bloom, she is lovely and gay. 
And oft has the charms of the flowers in May, 
The lillies in bloom and the dazzling star 
Are dim in the radiant gleams of the fair. 

The enchanting smile that some females impart. 

Is balm for the lonely disconsolate heart, 

Like cupid, awakens emotions of love; 

That most charming passion that comes from above. 



POEMS 165 

She wields such a power, it is no surprise, 

That the widower weeps and the bachelor sighs, 

She Inspires the gallant, with sweet hope and with fears, 

Till often he moistens his pillow with tears. 

Though nations may tremble, and kingdoms may fall, 
Yet the ladies will still have sweet charms for them all, 
To bless and improve, elevate and refine. 
The heads and the hearts, and the minds of mankind. 



SCIENCE AND ART. 

In a fast time like this it will not be amiss. 
If we something on science should say, 
For science and art is the pride of my heart, 
And the glory and pride of today. 

The youth and the sage, who adorn history's page, 
They once were just like you and me. 
They learned while at school, things were done by a rule, 
That commenced with an A, B and C. 

May the youths of this age, study history's page, 
For a more perfect knowledge we pray. 
That the forthcoming age, may arrive at a stage. 
Which will far excel that of today. 

It is now near at hand, when all over the land, 
Our airships will float on the breeze. 
We will fly through the air, in foul weather or fair. 
And travel where ever we please. 

Art and Science appealed to the great Cyrus Field, , 

When the Atlantic cable was laid, 
*Twas a wonder revealed, under water concealed. 
And a great step in progress was made. 



166 POEMS 

I am awe struck today, when I see the display, 
Through Science and Art we have wrought. 
What wonders I pray, will have gladened the day. 
That one hundred more years will have brought. 



EDUCATION. 



All those who fain would occupy an elevated station, 
Their aspirations should be high, with love for education; 
*'Tis education qualifies the student for professor, 
It elevates and dignifies its fortunate possessor. 

Science and art we fain would teach, for everything worth 

gaining 
The child of humble birth may reach, through scientific 

training; 
It proves a blessing everywhere, a complete education, 
With it nothing can compare to elevate a nation. 

Men of renown and high degree have reached a high 

station, 
Have climbed to fame from A, B, C, and honored this 

great nation. 
Through application to their work, energy and ambition, 
They reached the pinacle of fame, achieved a high position. 

It is a fact, we all should know, the morals of this nation 
Will higher, higher ever grow, through moral education; 
Then let each youth of this our day, be filled with moral 

knowledge, 
And tax all wealth for means to pay and put them through 

the college. 



POEMS 167 

No youth should be content with less, than thorough 

education, 
Also the papers, to express, a finished graduation. 
Then freedom would untrameled reign throughout this 

glorious nation, 
And anarchy, retire for shame, and none wish its creation. 

Some men aspire to higher fame and others seek for 

treasure, 
While education brings the same and far more solid 

pleasure ; 
Then trust ye not, to house and lands, to give you higher 

station, 
For this enlightened age demands a higher education. 



A PANORAMA OF LIFE. 

How charming and beautiful, lovely and gay. 
Are the buds and flowers in May, 
As they open and blow and sweet fragrance bestow, 
But they perish and soon fade away. 

Thus, man meets his doom, like the flowers in bloom, 
In his vigor remains but a day. 
Often called in the bloom and is laid in the tomb. 
And his glory all passeth away. 

This life as a rule, is a primary school. 

To prepare for college above. 

If our time we will fool, on the donothing stool. 

Then this life a sad failure will prove. 

Then we ever should move, and our time well improve. 
And be ready when called on to go. 
Learn to merit his love, in bright mansions above, 
A diploma he then will bestow. 



168 POEMS 

Our record will tell, if our passing is well, 

Wlien by death we are taken away, 

Where we hope long to dwell and the grand chorus swell. 

And on harps that are golden to play. 

And forever to reign, on that heavenly plane, 
With the loved ones who passed on before, 
And forever remain with the lamb that was slain. 
And the Saints of that bright shining shore. 



m 



GENEALOGY 

OF THE 

MYERS FAMILY 



170 GENEAIyOGY 



GENEALOGY OF THE MYERS FAMILY, 

HENRY MYERS, the grandfather of the author, was 
born in Lancaster County, Penn., Feb. 11th, 1765, and was 
married to Catherine Negley in 1789, and died Sept. 27th, 
1837. Catharine Negley was born March 4th, 1771; died 
Nov., 1855. They were both of sturdy Pennsylvania Dutch 
stock; intellectual, exemplary citizens. Mechanics, music 
and poetry were characteristics of the family. Henry 
Myers had 17 brothers and half brothers and one sister, 
of whom we have no genealogy or information, except that 
when Henry Myers left Pennsylvania and settled in Ken- 
tucky, he left them in Pennsylvania, and they were a 
Btrong, healthy, prolific, intellectual family; their chil- 
dren were George, Elizabeth, Mary, Sarah, John, David, 
Jacob, Casandria, Henry and Catharine. 

GEORGE MYERS. 

Born June 9th, 1791; married to Nancy Beauasaw in 
1810; died in 1860 his wife died in 1864; ten children, six 
daughters and four sons. 

CATHARINE. 

Born January 9th, 1812; married to Isom D. Bobbitt 
Nov. 18th, 1835; died in March, 1881; he died in Sept., 
1885; has three daughters and two sons, the eldest was 
accidently killed at Fort Donaldson on the day after the 
surrender. The others are married. Now living of her 
family, three children and fourteen grandchildren; total 17. 

NANCY CARTER. 

Born May 15, 1815; married to George Faughinder 
Sept. 13th, 1836; h-as three daughters and three sons; all 
are married; now living, six children, twenty-six grand- 
children and one great-grandchild; total, 35. 



GENEAIvOGY 171 

JOHN HENRY. 

Born Aug. 1st, 1816; married Caroline Rolen May 14th, 
1840, who died in 1847; one son and two daughters; he 
was then married to Jennette Donovan Sept. 4th, 1850; he 
died Jan. 25th, 1853; one son; all are married, eldest 
daughter is a widow, also his youngest son a widower; 
now living, 4 children and eleven grandchildren; total, 13. 

SUSAN HELLEN. 
Born March 9th, 1818; married to Rev. Thomas With- 
ers Feb. 21st, 1856; has one daughter and two sons, the 
daughter and one son are married; now living, three chil- 
dren and three grandchildren; total, 8. 

ELIZABETH W. 

Born Feb. 14th, 1819; died April 5th, 1865. 

DAVID DANIEL. 

Born May 9th, 1821; died Jan. 15th, 1850. 

BENJAMIN J. 

Born Feb. 19, 1823; married Elizabeth Duesinberry, in 
1855; she died in 1868. Five sons — he then married to 
Eliza Caughman, who also died leaving one daughter — ^he 
then married Nannie Flain — one son; married — now living 
six children and two grandchildren: total, 10. 

SARAH JANE. 

Born Oct. 24th, 1824; married to James Harkins Jan. 
4th, 1849; he died Mar. 4th, 1881; three daughters and 
one son, two daughters are married. Four children and 
five grandchildren; total, 10. 

ANNER P. 

Born Oct. 30th, 1826; married to S. M. Eaton, Feb. 23rd, 
1858; has two daughters and two sons; total, 6. 



172 GENEALOGY 

LUCY D. 

Born Dec. 1st, 1828; married to Hon. William Brown 
Dec. 17tli, 1850, who died in Sept., 1876. Two daughters 
and four sons, the daughters and one son are married; now 
living six children and twelve grandchildren; total, 19. 

GEORGE HASKINS. 

Born Sept. 16th, 1831; married Selena F. Thompson 
Sept. 3rd, 1857; has two daughters; one married; one son. 
Three children and three grandchildren; total, 8. 

( ) 

Now living; seven children; forty-one grandchildren; 
seventy-three great-grandchildren; one -great-great-grand- 
child. 

ELIZABETH MYERS. 

Born April 6th, 1793; married to William Barnes Dec. 
10th, 1807; died May 29th, 1856. Wm. Barnes born Oct. 
29th, 1778; died Nov. 12th, 1863. Thirteen children, six 
daughter and seven sons, as follows: 

ROBERT D. 

Born Aug. 27th, 1808. 

GEORGE W. 

Born Aug. 6th, 1810, married to Mary Hord Mar. 24th, 
1835, who died Oct. 6th, 1836; he then married Caroline 
McNeal in 1843; he died April 30th, 1870. Two sons and 
two daughters, one son and one daughter are married; 
now living three children, seven grandchildren; total, 11. 

MELVILLE. 

Born April 6th, 1812, married to Mary E. Johnson Oct. 
1st, 1835; died Oct. 4th, 1855; three sons, two are married; 
his v/idow died Sept. 1886; now living three children; 
total, 6. 



GENEALOGY 173 

FELISSA. 
Bom Dec. 17th, 1813; died June 1st, 1840. 

MAXWELL S. 

Born April 1st, 1816, married Eliza J. Word Jan 14th, 
1856; has three daughters and four sons, one son and 
daughter married; now living, seven children and three 
grandchildren; total, 12. 

CLEMENTINE CATHARINE. 

Born April 20th, 1818, died March 2nd, 1878. 

WILLIAM HENRY. 
Bom Dec. 2nd, 1819: died Oct. 27th, 1848. 

ELIZABETH A. 

Born Nov. 22nd, 1821. 

ANN I. 
Bom Oct. 22nd, 1825. 

MARY Z. 

Born Oct. 3rd, 1827, married to Matthew H. Wilson 
Jan. 10th, 1864, has two daughters and one son, who is 
married; total, 5. 

DAVID L. 

Born Nov. 18th, 1829. 

ELZA A. 

Born July 5th, 1831; died June 17th, 1880. 



174 GENEALOGY 

NISAN W. 

Bom May 9tli, 1833, married to H. A. Henderson Jan. 
16th, 1855; has a daughter and two sons, one daughter 
and one son married; now living, five children and six 
grandchildren; total, 13. 

( ) 

Now living seven children, twenty-one grandchildren, 
nineteen great-grandchildren and one great-great-grand- 
child. 

MARY MYERS. 

Born Oct. 19th, 1794, married Moses H. Allen in about 
1834, died March 19th, 1835. 

SARAH MYERS. 

Born Sept. 24th, 1796, married to George Lacy and 
removed to Missouri about 1840. The best account we can 
get of them is that she and her husband are both dead 
and left some 12 or 15 children and in all probability about 
75 grandchildren. 

JOHN G. MYERS. 

(See geneology of John G. Myers.) 
Bom Mar. 10th, 1799. 

DAVID MYERS. 

Born June 1st, 1801, married Jane Lacy, who died and 
left one son and one daughter; he afterwards married 
Sarah A. Hord; he died Jan. 25th, 1848; his widow died 
about twenty years later; one son, his eldest son 

ZEPHENIAH L. 

Was married to Susan Donovan, who died, (one 
daughter); he then married Bee Major; he died about the 



GENEALOGY 175 

year 1860; one daughter and four sons; his first daughter 
is married, has about six children and four grandchildren; 
total, 11. 

MINERVA. 

Married Richard D. Bradley in the year 1857, who died 
in 1862; she died about the year 1872. 

8ETH H. 

Born 1831, married Selina J. Cavanah in 1850, has four 
sons and three daughters, all married but the youngest 
daughter; now living, six children and eight grandchildren; 
total, 16. 

( ) 

Now living, one child, twelve grandchildren and fifteen 
great-grandchildren. 

JACOB MYERS. 

Bom Sept 6th, 1803; died Oct 24th 1820. 

CASANDRIA M. MYERS. 

Born April 25th, 1807, married to Newton Allen Jan. 
1st, 1828, who was born Oct 1st, 1800; died Aug. 30th, 1864; 
six daughters. 

MARGARET C. 

Bom Dec. 5th, 1828, married to David W. Lacy Jan. 
29th, 1855, who is now dead; three sons, the eldest is dead; 
second son is married; now living, 4. 

MARY ANN. 

Born Sept. 30th, 1830, married to M. T. West, Jan. 10th, 
1850, who died leaving three daughters, one son; she 
afterwards married Henry Royalty, who is also dead; two 

daughters, the first are all married, the eldest daughter 
is dead. 



176 GENEALOGY 

ZARILDA JANE. 

Born Feb. 7th, 1831, married John G. Mitchel, Feb. 
26th, 1856, who is now dead; two sons and two daughters; 
both the sons and eldest daughter are married. 

SIDNEY E. 

Bom Nov. 19th, 1833, married Fidelia S. Meachara, 
April 16th, 1862; has one daughter who is married. 

SUSAN H. 

Born Dec. loth, 1835, married to S. H. Underwood, 
Jan. 26th, 1857; has four sons and three daughters; two 
eldest daughters are married. 

AMANDA HELEN. 

Born Dec. 2^th, 1837, married to George P. Ticknor, 
July 29th, 1860; died Dec. 2nd, 1868, of consumption. 

Now living five children, nineteen grandchildren and 
twenty great-grandchildren; total, 45. 

HENRY MYERS. 

Born July 2nd, 1809, married Mariel S. Thompson, 
1834; died March 4th, 1844; she is still living; has four 
daughters all in Missouri and married. Elvira, born May 
14th, 1836. Louisa, born April 14th, 1838. Octava, bom 
March 27th, 1840. Melisa, born March 1st, 1843. 

CATHARINE MYERS 

Born Dec. 19th ,1810, married to Rice Dulin, Dec. 
22nd, 1827; died March 7th, 1876. Rice Dulin born Feb. 
24th, 1809. Of their family. 



GENEALOGY 177 

THOMAS JEFFERSON 

Born Sept 25th, 1830; died of lung disease Aug. 29th, 
1859. 

WILLIAM HENRY. 
Born Feb. 3rd, 1833. 

MARY WADE. 

Born Feb. 9th, 1835, married to O, B. Robinson la 
May, 1865, who died in 1870; one son. 

ROBERT SMITH. 

Born Aug. 26th, 1837, married to Mary demons, July, 
1860; has three sons and two daughters; one daughter 
married; one grandchild. 

MARTIN VAN. 
Bom April 12th, 1840. 

JOHN MYERS. 

Born Oct. 15th, 1842, married Mary Ellen Rice, Sept. 
1863; has two daughters and three sona. 

BENJAMIN F. 

Bom Nov. 5th, 1845, married Ann A. Clark in Sept, 
1865; died Feb. 22nd, 1866. 

ADELIA 0. 

Bom June 14th, 1849, married to Fiel Rice, Oct. 1869; 
has three daughters and two sons. 

LAURA R. 

Born April 26th, 1855, married to Wm. M. West, 1875; 
two daughters and one son; seven children, nineteen 
grandchildren, one great-grandchild; total, 27. 



178 GENEALOGY 

Of the Henry Myers family now living, one daughter^ 
one adopted daughter and one adopted son; total, 3. 
grandchildren about 45; their husbands and wives about 
36; great-grandchildren, exclusive of husbands and wives 
about 207; the fourth generation about 243; the fifth gen- 
eration about 2; total, 536. 

June 25th, 1887. 

The foregoing geneology was kindly furnished the 
family reunion of the John Grove Myers branch of the 
family, held in Bloomington, 111., June, 1887, by the rela- 
tives in Kentucky and only dates to June 25th, 1887. The 
genealogy of the John Grove Myers family will follow and 
come down to this date, as far as known by the author. 



GENEALOGY 

OF THE 

John Grove Myers Family 



180 GENEALOGY 



GENEALOGY 

of John Grove Myers' Family, 

John Grove Myers, born in Christian county, Ky., 1799, died 
May 10, 1868, aged 69 years. Mary Lindley Myers, his 
wife, died Sept. 7, 1857, aged .^6 years. Their children 
were: Catherine, Jacob W., Elizabeth C, Sarah J., 
William H., JohnF., George W., David D., Margarel A. 
and James M. 

2. Catharine Myers, d., married William M. Rust, d. 
Their children were: 

James W., died in infancy. 
Mary Jane, d., married Rev. Thos. J. Slrimg- 
field. Their children were: 

Edgar L. 
William R. 

Amanda C, married John Heber Stringfield. 
Their children were: 

Amelia, married Harry E. Jones. 

Elizabeth. 

Belle, married Alfred Thompson. 

A. Frank, married Emma Davis. 

W. Jesse, married Laura Davenport. 

Caroline. 

Cara. 



Frank P., married Mary E. Stringfield. 
Their children were: 

Eva J., married Harry D. Wales. 
Clara M., married William H. Birge. 



GENEALOGY 181 

Emma Rust married Henry H. Lacy. Their 
children were: 

Lillie B., married Edward Wyrick. 
Lena. 

Andrew J., died in youth. 

Carrie L. , married French Holinshead. They 
had one child: 

M)^rtle, married C. C. Mathews. 



May, died in childhood. 

George B., married Alice Nixon. They had 
one child: 
May. 



2. Jacob W. Myers, d., married Lurana Phillips. Their 
children were: 

Charges, married Abbie Little. Their child- 
were: 

Olive. 
Jacob. 



George W., married Laura Brock way. 
They had one child: 

Nellie A. 



Martha Myers, married Henry Miller, d, 
Their children were: 
Ira. 
Fanny. 
Harry. 



182 GENEALOGY 



Dora, married Hon. Oliver P. Hannah. Their 
children were: 

Merle. 
Jesse. 
Laura. 
Josephine, d. 

Luta, married John C. VanDyke. Their 
children were: 

Duke. 
Floyd. 
Jean. 
Lutie. 
Perry, d. 

Nella, died in youth. 

Jesse B., married James C. Johnston. They 
had one child: 

Dorotha L. 

Tressie L. , married John W. Redman. They 
had one child. 

Madaline. 



2. Elizabeth O. Myers, d., married Simon L. Green- 
wood, d. Their children were: 

John T., married Elva A. Pheasant. Their 
children were: 

Laura E. 
John T. 
William R. 
Elsie E. 
Clara Louise. 
Grace A. 



GENEALOGY 183 

Annie, married Benjamin Major, d. They 
had one child: 

Nettie. 



Byron S., married Matilda Campbell. Their 
children were: 

Clyde C. 
Gladys. 

George W., d., married Ida Thayler. 



2. Sarah J. Myers, d., married Jeremiah Welch, d. 
Their children were: 

Mary, married Louis R. Calhoun, d. Their 
children were: 

Harry Borden. 
Ella W. 
John F. 
Louis K. 
Everett W. 



Ella, died in youth. 

John F., married Elizabeth Kershaw. Their 
children were: 

Bessie K., died in youth. 

Elsie. 

^Bernice. 

Dorotha. 

Minerva, married Charles C. Wagner. They 
had only one child: 
Homer. 



184 GENEALOGY 



Harry, married Elizabeth Kilgore. They 
had one child: 

Elinor. 



2. William H. Myers, married Adeline White. Their 
children were: 

Leroy. 

Emma L., d. 

George, d. 

Frank, married Carrie Johnson. Their 
children were: 

Leslie. 
Ethel. 
Ruth. 

John G., d. 

William H., married Nellie Burrel. Their 
children were: 

Earl. 

Hazel. 

Fay. 

Minnie, d. 

Grace, d., married Orville McReynolds. 

Their children were: 
Stella. 
A. Jay. 

Addie, married James Palmer. Their child- 
ren were: 



GENEALOGY 185 

Bert. 
Hazel. 

Gertie B., d. 

Marquis, married Bertha Ganding. Their 
children were: 

Fern. 
Wayne. 

Myrtle, married Frank W, Jones. 

Carl. 

Glynn. 

Arthur Bert. 



2. John F. Myers, married Sarah C. Birdsell, d. Their • \ 
children were: 

Birdsell F., d. married Gladdie Wig- 
gins. 
George W. 
John F. 



Cora Bell, d., married Marquis D. Spence. 
Their children were: 

John Meurle. 

Berney. 

Carle. 

Emily Estella, died at the age of 17. 
George L., died at the age of 18 months. 
John Ray, died at the age of 3. 



186 GENEALOGY 

2. Geo. W. Myers, married Anna M. Woodard. They 
had one child: 

Franklin P., died in infancy. 
2. David D. Myers, died at the age of 23. 



2. Margaret A. Myers, d., married William W. Bills. 
Their children were: 

Mary Nettie, married George R. Dement. 

George W., married Sadie Jeffries. They 
had one chi d: 

Alvin B. 



Ella May, married Eugene G. Hay ward 
Their children were: 

Margaret S. 
Harold. 



2. Jas. M. Myers died in infancy. 



f 



GENEALOGY 

OF THE 

John Lindley, Sr., Family 



188 GENEALOGY 



GENEALOGY 

of the Family of John Lindley, Sr. 

John Licdley, Sr., was born in North Carolina, and 
died in McLean county, 111., on July 7, 18." 6, aged 82 
years, 4 months and 18 days. His wife, Elizab th (Gray) 
Lindley, was born in Christian county, Ky., died Jan. 
14, 1861, agf d 79 years, 1 month and 8 days. He was of 
English descent — an intelligent farmer and stockman. 
She was of high c'ass Scotch- rish lineage, very intelli- 
gent, and a wuman of much influence and force of charac- 
ter. Tneir children were: Mary, William, John, Sarah, 
Margaret A., Jane, Wilson, ard Elizabeth. For Mary 
Lindley' s family see Genealogy of J< hn Grove Myers. 

2. Dr. Wm. Lindley, born in Christian county, Ky., 

Nov. 16, A.D. 1803, died June 25, 1892; married 

Unity Warren, born in Christian county, Ky., 

.lived to the age of 73 years and 7 months. Their 

children were; 

Margaret, married Uley Passwaters. 
Their children were: 

Lovina, married William Bunnell. 



Dr. John Lindley, married Julia Barnett. 
Their children were: 

Emma. 
Sarah. 
William. 
Louis. 

James Lindley, married Sophrona Gray, 
They had one child: 

William. 



GENEALOGY 189 

Wilson Lindley, died in youth. 

Stewart Lindley, married Philura Hummel: 
Their children were: 

Bitura, married Mathew. Small. 
Their children were: 

Harley. 

Iva. 

Lucy. 

Frank, married . Their 

children were: 

Bernice. 
Unity. 

Mary, married Ora Williams. They 
had one child: 

Howard. 

Love, married James Rhodes. 

Elizabeth Lindley, married Aaron Vanostin. 
They had one child: 
William. 

Mary Lindley, married James Holcomb. 

Lucindia Lindley, married Walter Smith. 
They had one child, died in infancy. 

Robert Lindley, died in early manhood. 

Reason Lindley, died in infancy. 

Uley Lindley, died in infancy. 



190 GENEALOGY 

2. John Lindley, Jr., married (first) Melinda Jones, 
(second) Jane Williams. The children by first 
marriage were: 

Mary. 
William. 

The children by second marriage were: 
Gabriel. 
John. 
Annie. 
Daniel. 
Sarah. 
Emma. 
Ella. 



Mary Wndley, d., married Isaac Pember- 
ton. Their children were: 

Alice, married Adolph Engwiler. 

Thomas, d., married Minnie — . 

They had one child: 

Paul. 



Carrie, married William FitzHenry. 

William L., married Margaret Mc- 
Carthy. Their children were: 

Loretta H. 
Hubbard W. 
Rachael M. 
Joseph R. 

Charles Pemberton, married Bertie 
Forbes. Their children were: 

Laurence. 
Ruth P. 



GENEALOGY 191 

William Lindley, married Elizabeth Mid- 
dleton. Their children were: 

Joseph. 

Elizabeth. 

Mary. 

Delia. 

Estella. 

Charles. 

William. 



Gabriel Lindley, married Sarah H. Yancy. 
Their children were: 

Georgia B., married B. F. Wright. 
Willie M., married Walker Wilkins. 

John Lindley, married Jane Middleton. 
Their children were: 

Henry. 

Frank. 

Estella. 

May. 

Lidia. 

Russell. 

Annie E. Lindley, d. 

Barah Lindley, married Aquila Braden. 
They had one child: 

Alean. 

Emma Lindley, married (first) Ad Hildreth, 
(second) Burt Nash. The children by 
first marriage were: 

Valina. 
Holton. 



192 GENEALOGY 



There was one child by second marriage: 
Dorine. 

Ella Lindley, married Rev. Henry Mavity. 
Their children were: 

Alura. 

Stanley. 

William. 

Sarah Lindley, married Thomas Bell. 



Margaret Ann Lindley was born July 22d, A. D. 
1818, and was married to Daniel Scott. Their 
children were Wilson, Elizabeth, Mary Ann, d. 
John A., William P. and Daniel K. 

Wilson Scott married for his first wife Ma- 
hala H. Kirtland. 
Their children were: 

Daniel H., who married Minnie 
Henthorn. 

Their children w^re: 

Ashley. 
Walter. 
Adlia. 
Raymond. 
D. H. 
Dewey. 
Rachael. 
Sarah E. 
Paul. 
, Joseph. 

Marg-aret A. Scott married Joseph 
Faulkner. Their children were; 
Lewis E. 
Amy E. 



GENEALOGY 193 

John Scott married Elizabeth Par- 
ker. They had one son. 

William E. 



Amy Scott married Albert Sypult. 
Their children were: 

Ethel G. 
Marjorie. 
Lucielle. 
Erma F. 



Wilson Scott married for his second wife 
Catharine Barton. Their children were: 

Myrtle Scott, who married James 

Wall. 
William. 
Minnie R., who married Henry W. 

Lange. 
Louisa. 
Albert. 



Elizabeth Scott married William Cox. Their 
children were: 

John. 
Daniel A. 
Margaret A. 
William, d. 
Mary J., d. 
Druzilla. 
Elizabeth. 
Charles C. 



194 GENEALOGY 



John Cox married Cynthia E. Har- 
ris. Their children were: 

Elizabeth. 

Minnie, married Samuel 

Wilson. 
Mary A. 
Ruth J. 
Sylvia. 

Wm. R. Cox married Julia Amos. 
Their children were: 

Margaret A. 
Floyd J. 
William R. 

Elizabeth T. Cox married Benjamin 
Nalfia. No children. 

Daniel A. Cox. 
Margaret A. Cox. 
Mary J. Cox, d. 
Druzilla Cox. 
Charles C. Cox. 

John Scott, son of Margaret A. Lindley. 
Single. 

William P. Scott married Mary McHugh. 
No children. 

Daniel K. Scott married Arminda Gaddis. 
No children living. 

Mary Ann Scott married Hiram Sump- 
ter. Their children were: 

Daniel W. 

Mary Jane. 

Joseph E. 

William, died in infancy. 



GENEALOGY 195 

2. Elizabeth Lindley, married John Rust. Their 
children were: 

George Rust, married Caroline Hoover. 
Their children were: 

Andrew P., married Minnie Sch- 

lepach. 
Laura, married William Galtry. 

Their children were: 
Fay. 
Pearl. 
Perry. 

Zella. 
Hellen. 

Andrew Rust, died at the age of 17 years. 

Thomas Rust, married Plorinda Bishop. 
Their children were: 

John. 
Imo. 

John lyee Rust, married Martha E. McFar- 
land. Their children were: 

Annie, married Frank Borst. Their 
children were: 

Oletha. 
Rolf. 

Clarence, married Emma Eslinger* 
They had one child: 

Virgil. 

Elmer, married Eva Anthony. They 
had one child: 
William. 



196 GENEALOGY 



Grace, married Bert Hornish. 

Howard. 

Mabel. 

Walter. 

Roy. 

William D. Rust, married Martha Hartson. 
Their children were: 

Emery. 

Ethel. 

William. 

Elizabeth J., married Martin L. Bishop. 
Their cheildren were: 

Lulu. 
Byron. 

Alice, married John Kelly. They had one 
child: 

Guy. 

Minnie Rust, married John Fitzpatrick. 
Their children were: 

Herman. 

Mable. 

Morris. 

Ben jamin Rust, married Ollie Givens. Their 

children were: 
Everett. 
Raymond. 



GENEALOGY 

OF THE 

William W. Birdsell Family 



198 GENEALOGY 



GENEALOGY 
Of the Family of William W. Birdsell. 

William W. Birdsell, bora in Duchess county, N. Y., April 
20, 1800, died April, 1850, married Lovina Pas waters, d.. 
May 8, 1828. She was born Feb. 21, 1810, in the state of 
Delaware. Their children were: Jesse, Emily, Wil- 
liam F., John S. and Sarah C. 

2. Jesse Birdsell, d., married Lucia Crow, d. Their 
children were: 

Joseph, d. 

Joan, married (first) Newton Hazelrig, d. 
(second) Kirby. 

William, married Flora Buck. Their chil- 
dren were: 

Claude. 
Jesse. 
Harriet. 
Hazel. 

2. Emily Birdsell, d., married William A. Cruik- 
shank, d. Their children were: 

Frances L., married (first) Charles Rutlege, 
(second) Camden W. McCo'nb. The child- 
ren by first marriage were: 

Esnella, married Dell C. Kitchell. 
Emmil, married Eva Labarr. 
Floyd, married Tress ieRobertshaw. 
Mary. 



GENEALOGY 199 

Scott, married Elizabeth McComb. Their 
children were: 

William. 
Irl. 

Rachel. 
Clara. 



John B., married Mary Elsworth. Their 
children were: 

Paul, d. 
Frank. 
Jesse, d. 
Bertha. 
Porter. 



Jane, married James Stockdale. Their child- 
ren were: 

Beaula. 
Montelle, d. 
Courtney. 



Harry, married Ida Thery. Their children 
were: 

Don. 

Thery. 

Roe. 

Anette. 

Minnette. 

Frances. 



200 GENEALOGY 

2. William F. Birdsell, d., married Jennie Carl. Their 
children were: 

Frankie, d. 
Carl, d. 



2. John S. Birdsell, died at New Orleans while a mem- 
ber of a military band, during the Rebellion. 



2. Sarah C. Birdsell, d., married John F. Myers. For 
children see John G. Myers^ Genealogy. 



* 



ERRATA 

Pa^e 9, line 4, "beautiful" should be "beauty " 
Page 27, insert "Are" at beginning of line 16. 
Page 124, in heading "can" should be "care." 
Page 161, insert "time" after the word "till" in line 27. 
The following omissions were made in the Genealogy of 
the family of John Lindley, Sr. They should appear on 
Undley ^^^^^^^^^ ^^^ Bindley and before Elizabeth 

2. Jane Lindley married George W. Thomp- 
son. 

2. Wilson Lindley, married Martha A. Rust. 
Their children were: 
William. 
George. 
John. 
Nancy C. 
James. 
Elizabeth. 
Brethett. 
Thomas. 



^A, 



« 



»n^ 



6^ 



^^. 



